Review: Sacrum – Days of Quarantine (2009)
Argentine metal group Sacrum, I suddenly wrote that statement as I usually do with some sort of variation when beginning a new review. However, today is a bit different because I realized just how much of a cross section of sub-genres and nations that make up the metal landscape. Its really intriguing to be a critic and have such a diverse group come to you in order for you to judge their music. I consider it an honor that someone I have never met, no matter how good the band ends up being, is interested in my opinion on the music that they put their heart and soul into. I try and be as honest as I can with my reviews as I can think of no better way to return the favor to those artists that I get to experience. With that said, it gives me great pride to introduce Sacrum and their album Days of Quarantine to the masses, because it is downright awesome.
Harnessing the power of progressive metal the way it should be by pushing the boundaries of what makes up traditional and melodic metal, Sacrum are no Dream Theater clone. In fact, Days of Quarantine is a MUCH better record than Dream Theater’s latest release Black Clouds and Silver Linings. While the DT release was muddled with mainstream rock moments, Days of Quarantine beckons the listener to breathe in the rich tapestry of electronica, indie rock, the subtle yet very effective vocals of Estanislao Silveyra and so many other creative combinations that don’t rely on mind blowing technicality. I relate Days of Quarantine much more to Spock’s Beard than heavier forms of progressive metal, though Sacrum is definitely heavier than Spock’s Beard while still maintaining that storyteller’s atmosphere that Spock’s Beard harnesses so well. Without a doubt, Sacrum has built an album that is heavy enough that many modern fans will listen (especially with bits of harsh vocals thrown in for good measure), yet still prog in essence that even old school RUSH and Yes will absorb it enthusiastically.
Days of Quarantine is not an everyman’s album by nature. People either want to read into the depth of music, or they want to react to it. Sacrum is thinking man’s music, and though that may sound elitist, it takes a certain person to really appreciate this kind of music. It’s not bone crushing and face melting (both of which I have used on several occasions I am sure when reviewing), it’s beautiful and artistic. Does that sound like metal? Not really, but it is. Argentina has brought forth a diamond.
MANDATORY OWNAGE
Top Tracks: Quarantine, Pressure, The Last Trace
Similar Artists: Spock’s Beard, Threshold, King’s X, Paradise Lost, Faith No More
1. Survive
2. Pressure
3. Dazing Silence
4. The Unknown
5. Eternity
6. Quarantine
7. Keeping Me Alive
8. Recalling
9. Dancing Stars
10. Forbidden
11. Midnight Sun
12. The Last Trace
13. Animal
Estanislao Silveyra – Vocals/Guitar
Martín Guerrero – Guitar
Agustín Sedano Acosta – Drums
Diego Cipolla – Bass
Self Released
Review by CODY
Hey this is neat, but when are you guys gonna review that hot new band Nefilliac?
I’m not a fan of this. I don’t know why. I’m not going to hate because I appreciate it as a good peice of music, but it was chore for me to listen to.
Carter – It’s comin brother, it’s comin!