Headspace
Headspace brings a more restless instrumental approach to a familiar alternative metal sound. Pulse Ultra use substantial guitars and melodic singing, but the bass often moves separately from the riffs, and changes in rhythm give the songs another source of interest. The result can be engaging and carefully played, even when the band's influences are easier to identify than a distinctive identity of their own.
Acceptance (Phase I) and Finding My Place (Phase II) give the record a forceful opening. Short guitar figures and firm drumming establish the weight, with the second song making useful room between the bass and guitar parts. The arrangements have more movement than the broad style initially suggests.
Slip In Sin develops a more atmospheric character. Guitar effects and a prominent bass line create a spacious opening, allowing the heavier and more melodic sides to sit together. The resemblance to Tool is clear, but the interplay gives the performance enough detail to remain interesting.
Prelude provides a piano interlude. Build Your Cages moves from a cleaner opening towards a heavier groove, with its drums making a strong impression.
Glass Door has quicker movement and a less straightforward rhythm, although some vocal effects distract. Despot closes with a more expansive shape, developing from simpler guitar and voice towards a heavier chorus.
The limitations are mostly about the writing's individual character. Some songs resemble established alternative rock and metal bands too closely, and a few passages continue longer than their ideas justify. The instruments can be more distinctive than the broader style around them.
Still, Headspace contains enough strong bass playing, rhythmic detail and melodic appeal to reward attention. Its most convincing moments let the instruments create space around the vocal rather than simply doubling the same riff. Pulse Ultra work within a recognisable sound while finding several worthwhile ways to make it move.
