This is the third album from Xoth, a death metal band from the US.
Exogalactic can be thought of as a sci-fi-themed tech death album that’s spliced with black and thrash metal elements. Across 39 minutes Xoth impress with their exuberant delivery, especially as it’s backed up by some serious musical chops.
Exogalactic‘s core is one of modern technical death metal. This is then energised by thrash metal’s charismatic vitality, and given a worldbuilding form born from old-school songcraft. Into this mix are thrown a small, but select, parts of modern black metal, which provide a caustic bite that might be lacking without them. Additionally, you can also detect a power metal edge to some of the more extravagant solos and leads, helping to make Exogalactic as well-rounded and engaging as it is.
Despite essentially being a whirlwind of blistering complexity and intricate extremity, Exogalactic is not an inaccessible mess. Xoth know how to write a compelling song, and these eight tracks all hit the mark with great force. The band’s song-focused approach to their art allows for the formation of music that simultaneously draws the listener in with sharp hooks, while also dazzling them with a maelstrom of colourful technicality.
This is really top stuff. For a band to remember the importance of catchiness and memorability, while still playing in the technical death metal field is an uncommon treat. Xoth have not forgotten this important ingredient though, and on Exogalactic they have put this knowledge to expert use. If you’re a fan of technical extremity that hits hard in ways that you’ll remember after the bruises fade, then this is an essential listen.
Wonderbox Metal 