Mnemic
Passenger

THE REVIEW

As already hinted in the previous "The Audio Injected Soul," Mnemic continue along the path of catchy musical violence of a metallic nature, appealing to all those who view this genre as an expression of the new millennium (or at least a product of the last five years of the previous century).

However, and if you pay attention to some riffs and certain rhythmic solutions, you'll notice that there are also stylistic references to more "old" forms of heavy metal (thrash), all without ever compromising the cybernetic imprint that the Danish band pursues with obsession and determination. This consideration is highlighted by the fact that they have entrusted the production to a team of super experts, as if they wanted to put together the most explosive combination possible, drawing from various sources. Indeed, besides the band itself, the names include Christian Olde Wolbers from Fear Factory, Warren Riker (Down and Crowbar, but also The Fugees, Lauryn Hill, and Michael Jackson), and the eminent Tue Madsen! Moreover, in "Psykorgasm", we find, as guests, Shane Embury from Napalm Death and Jeff Walker from Carcass. As if that wasn't enough, Roy Z. (already alongside Bruce Dickinson and Judas Priest) collaborated on the writing of "Meaningless". And without forgetting that the three years between the second and third (and present) album were partly spent searching for a new singer, ultimately found in Guillame Bideau (formerly of Scarve).

In short, it's clear that with this whirlwind of participants (of experience, as well as undeniable class), the circle has been squared. And it's been squared through songs that prefer a sort of structural hysteria, the alternation of vocal timbres, instrumental might, a devastating impact, and a surgical level of sonic cleanliness, but also a certain predictability over the long term. Had they worked more on the arrangements (exemplary, for instance, the electro addition at the close of the beautiful "In Control"), they would certainly have demonstrated the ability to go beyond the already known. Though this does not detract from the fact that albums like "Passenger" are always welcome.