Being an instrumental metal band is risky business, especially with the genre once again resting at a commercial apex. From the get-go you're pretty much guaranteed only a niche audience and without a vocalist to fall back on, the structuring of your songs and the quality of your technical ability is thrust directly into the spotlight. Luckily for the trio of Canvas Solaris, their musicianship and playing ability are light years beyond that of most bands out there, and they aren't afraid to prove it again and again on this release.

Although the realm of progressive death metal is vaguely describable at best, the music on hand here can draw comparisons to the likes of early Dream Theater, Death and even Into Eternity. Showcasing a penchant for pummeling grooves and technical aerobatics, the band masterfully meld both the energy and dexterity of 80's metal pioneers with the more gritty undercurrents of today's modern acts. Ultimately there is also a healthy serving of prog-rock injected here. Complex arrangements and haphazard indulgence are also key elements. But neither hamper the bands ability to weave rich sonic tapestries that are as mesmerizing as they are engulfing.

The skill and playing ability on hand is top notch and the almost mathematical precision with which they are able to execute their compositions is astounding. Truly the addition of a vocalist to such a rich gathering of musicians would only weigh them down; causing them to have to simplify the material they are already able to so ambitiously express. From ethereal melodies to frenzied ripping Canvas Solaris are a band capable of conquering the listener not only by brute force, but also their intelligent ideals as well. Unfortunately, to the mainstream audiences this album will be far too much to understand as it lacks the tedious nu-metalcore formulaics. But to those who appreciate the artform of intricate and imaginative metal, you need look no further.