Inheritance 2012

"For a band branded as a dark progressive metal band, Ashent's latest effort is incredibly melodic. That is of course not a bad thing, and "Inheritance" is definitely a massive effort which is artistically successful.

Striking is, first of all, the massive crunch of the guitars and how this suits both the melodic harmonies and rhythmic ambiguities that abound on this fine album. The music is technically advanced, to be sure, but comes across inviting and accessible. The drumming is organic an full of fills and, while not overtly show offy, definitely not stuff that is easy to pull off. The bass has a nice broad and round sound, at times taking an almost lead-like position, but always providing the glue that holds the many textures on this album together. On the lead side, both keyboard solos and guitar solos reflect technically skilled musicians who know how to perform leads that showcase their skills without stealing the stage from the rest of the instrumentation.

I do not know if this type of progressive metal appeals to everyone, but I would argue that Ashent's brand of progressive metal, at least on this album, is fairly original and deserves credit for that. Some of the choral arrangements remind me of Queen, while there are also elements that make me think of Yes, Mew, and Cynic. But, at all times Ashent sounds like Ashent, and their music is so rich in texture that it is easy to immerse oneself in - even if one is not a seasoned progressive metal fan.

Titta Tani's crooning vocals might be an acquired taste, but his singing style definitely adds to the originality of the music on the album. He shows that he is indeed able to belt out some face melters whenever needed and I must say that after some initial skepticism, his vocal style has won me over.

Fans of progressive metal who ar looking for something different, yet recognizable and who love metal that emphasizes melodic and texture, should give Ashent's "Inheritance" a listen.

(review originally posted at metalmusicarchives.com)"