Based in the US, Irist are a modern metal band and this is their debut album.
Irist’s recipe is one that takes a wide range of influences and works them into a comprehensive modern metal framework. Loosely stated, Irist take elements of hardcore, thrash metal, and progressive/post-hardcore/metal, and hone them into song-based packages of metallic heaviness.
Imagine a mix of Gojira and Mastodon, and then add in aspects of everyone from Darkest Hour, to Fit for an Autopsy, to Sepultura, to The Ocean, to Meshuggah, to a range of others. This will hopefully give a rough idea of Irist’s sound, but their skill comes in weaving these influences together, channelling them into addictive songs, and unleashing them with the power of a small explosion.
The music is memorable and makes an impression. Full of dynamic songwriting and energetic delivery, the tracks on this release are compelling and effectively realised. Well-written and rhythmically-powered, the music strikes a good balance between heavy aggression and emotive immersion. These are songs that have both atmosphere and bite, with the band alternating focus between the two depending on the needs of any particular part of any particular song.
Order of the Mind is a very strong debut release. It wears its influences on its sleeves, but what it does with the influences is what’s important.
Very enjoyable, and highly recommended.
