ATRIA - Ground Zero

ATRIA

EP: Ground Zero

Genre: Modern Progmetal

Release Date: August 18th, 2023

Country: Canada

Label: Self-Released

Band-Links: BANDCAMP / INSTAGRAM / FACEBOOK

Here we go with more, impressive Canadian metal, proudly presented by powerhouse ATRIA, who just unleashed their sophomore EP, “Ground Zero”. The band was formed by Tom Emmans (vocals) and Tim Ross (guitar), and named after a venue the two played their first gig together. Having seen some line-up changes apart from the founding duo since then, the current setting feels really strong for me considering the five tracks they throw into the ring right now.

Four of them are mind blowing and aggressive, coming along incredibly groovy yet pushing with often djent-driven rhythm patterns. While the riffs are dark and mighty, the lead guitar adds brighter, melodic parts. Tom’s growls are brutal, expressing the frustration in life and the anger towards the world we live in, but he also manages to switch effortlessly into clean singing during the often catchy choruses.

Besides those prominent elements, there’s a lot happening in the background that gives their music an anthemic sound, brought to bear by the well-balanced mixing. Closing with "The Brightest Lights" they change pace and mood in a wonderful way, as it’s performed only with keys and clean vocals, and shows a different emotional side of their versatile work. Clearly a band to keep an eye (and ear) on!

Written by Katha (originally for The Progspace)