Indefinite Soul-Extension
[SPV]

If you're like me, perhaps you're getting a bit tired of the whole melodic death metal scene. Here's a band that takes that beaten dead horse and brings it back to life. By adding some progressive elements and clean vocals, Unmoored have proven to me that melodic death still has a few breaths left.

Unmoored's overall sound is a mix of Edge Of Sanity, At The Gates, and a bit of Opeth (particularly in the more progressive sections). They are lighter than brutal death, yet heavier than most melodic death bands. Blastbeats are used sparingly, as are breakdowns and soft acoustic passages. There is a hint of black metal influence, especially in the blastbeat sections. Harsh and clean vocals are used throughout, and both (courtesy of Christian Alvestam) are excellent. He has a very Dan Swano-esque quality in his growls, and his clean vocals are excellent. Of particular interest to me are the lead guitars (skillfully played by Tomas Johansson). While the ryhthms are excellent, the leads steal the show. They have an Yngwie-meets-Michael Schenker sound to them, with a melodic/bluesy feel that few players of the genre possess. I only wish there were more solos.

The production (courtesy of the usually excellent Tommy Tagtgren) left me with mixed emotions. While everything is recorded very cleanly and clearly, Indefinite Soul-Extension sports a somewhat sterile, midrange-y "gray" sort of sound. It could use a bass boost, and the rhythm guitars are a bit too dry for my tastes. That being said,the production doesn't take anything away from an otherwise great album.

For fans of excellent songcraft and musicianship, Unmoored is a band you should check out. They offer something for every metal fan, and they are progressive without being pretentious. Make no mistake about it: This is still melodic death metal. It just takes it to another level.