Reclaimer
Reclaimer gives technical deathcore an unusually clear melodic character. Shadow of Intent use fast guitars, low vocals and heavy rhythms, but allow symphonic parts to do more than enlarge the sound. Melodies connect sections which could easily feel like separate attacks.
The Prophet's Beckoning (feat. Tom Barber) demonstrates that approach well. It begins with a heavier riff and orchestral sounds before increasing the pace. Fast drums, guitar leads and a more cleanly sung chorus follow one another. The many changes stay understandable because the band maintain a melodic line.
Ben Duerr's voice provides another major strength. Deep sounds and higher cries give the songs considerable range without removing space from the instruments. The Heretic Prevails places that singing particularly firmly at the centre. It is extreme music, but retains enough structure to work beyond its most impressive vocal moments.
The instrumental The Great Schism allows the guitars to tell more of the story. Melodic solos reveal how much colour exists beside the technical speed. Heavier rhythmic passages also retain their place. The band do not need every element at maximum volume throughout to make a large impact.
The long running time requires attention and the voice is not equally expressive everywhere. In some passages, consistent execution matters more than a fresh idea. Reclaimer remains convincing through the way its parts support one another, however. Orchestral layers allow the guitars space, and fast drums give the larger structures movement. Shadow of Intent make an ambitious record which carefully joins memorable melodies to extreme force. Its strongest transitions show how much difference clear development can make within an especially busy sound.
