TesseracT's third studio album, Polaris, is a masterclass in progressive metal, showcasing the band's ability to craft intricate and atmospheric soundscapes. Released on 18 September 2015 through Kscope, this 9-track album is a testament to the band's skill in blending technical riffs with melodic hooks and atmospheric layers.
From the opening notes of 'Dystopia', it's clear that TesseracT are pushing the boundaries of their genre, with a mix of stop-start vocals and acrobatic melodic hooks that set the tone for the rest of the album. The seamless segue into 'Hexes' demonstrates the band's desire to create a cohesive and flowing listening experience, with melodic themes that tease at familiarity without ever becoming repetitive.
With a duration of 46 minutes, Polaris is a concise and focused album that showcases TesseracT's ability to balance complexity with accessibility. The band's use of 5.1 surround sound on the 2-disc version of the album adds an extra layer of depth and immersion to the listening experience, making it a must-have for fans of progressive metal.
Throughout the album, TesseracT's unique blend of djent, progressive metal, and progressive rock is on full display, with tracks like 'Survival', 'Tourniquet', and 'Utopia' showcasing the band's ability to craft complex and intricate songs that are both challenging and rewarding to listen to. With Polaris, TesseracT have cemented their position as one of the leading bands in the progressive metal genre, and this album is a must-listen for fans of complex and atmospheric music.
