Rise Above Dead photo credit: manuela giurano photography
Italian based band Rise Above Dead was founded in 2010 by five friends who were all passionate about making music that broke through convention. The band is based in Milan. The band was heavily influenced by the dark, crust hardcore genre when it first started out, looking to groups like Tragedy, Cursed, and Fall of Efrafa for inspiration. During this time, they developed a raw, powerful sound that connected with the underground hardcore scene.
However, in 2014, a significant transformation took place. Rise Above Dead transitioned to an instrumental format, which marked a new era in their musical journey. With a strong post-metal and sludge influence, this change gave them the opportunity to experiment with a more ambient and experimental sound. Their new idols, bands like Isis, Cult of Luna, Neurosis, Pelican, and Russian Circles, led them toward a soundscape that is both potent and evocative.
The current lineup features Matteo and Andrea P on guitars, Daniele on drums, and Andrea G on bass. This quartet has managed to blend post-metal, sludge, and post-rock atmospheres with their hardcore roots, creating a unique and captivating fusion. Their music, rich with instrumental and cinematic elements, weaves together themes of melancholy, darkness, romance, and epic grandeur. Over the years, Rise Above Dead has toured extensively across Italy and Europe, performing alongside both local and international acts, and earning a dedicated following for their intense live performances and dynamic compositions.
Prepare to be swept away by the sonic storm of Rise Above Dead’s latest single, “The Divert of Perceptions,” released on July 30th, 2020. This instrumental masterpiece, recorded at Trai Studio in Lombardy and masterfully produced with the help of Femore Production, showcases the band’s ability to create a deeply immersive and powerful musical experience. Mastered by Magnus from Cult of Luna in Sweden, the track reflects the band’s evolution and their commitment to pushing the boundaries of post-metal. Inspired by the mythology and visions of William Blake, “The Divert of Perceptions” invites listeners to embark on a journey through a rich tapestry of sound, blending heavy, electrifying guitar riffs, intense drum beats, and a thick, majestic bassline.
As I embarked on the auditory journey that is Rise Above Dead’s “The Divert of Perceptions,” I was immediately struck by the band’s ability to redefine the boundaries of rock metal. This instrumental masterwork exhibits a really remarkable degree of originality and authenticity. I felt as like I was diving into tranquil waters from the first note of the song, which is deceptively peaceful guitar strings, until the 0:05 mark, when a storm of powerful, thrilling guitar riffs sweeps me away. This sudden shift in intensity pulled me into an unfamiliar world, one where sound and emotion intertwine seamlessly.
The guitar riffs in this track are nothing short of mesmerizing. Their heavy, crisp texture, tinged with a grunge aura, immediately captivated my senses. Shortly after, the powerful drum beat made its entrance, pulsating like the heartbeat of a troubled soul. This drum beat, combined with the thick, majestic flow of the bass, created a rich, immersive soundscape that enveloped me completely. The bass’s thick essence permeated the entire instrumental makeup, adding depth and texture that enhanced the overall intensity of the track.
As the music progressed, I was struck by the consistency of the instrumental flow. The track maintained a slightly fast tempo, constantly progressing and evolving, yet never losing its core essence. The excitement of the song was tangible, and the music had a strong, pervasive vibe. This was more than just music to listen to—it was an intensely felt experience. The intensity of the sound continued to build, creating a relentless storm of sonic wonder that left me gasping for air.
One of the most remarkable aspects of “The Divert of Perceptions” is the way it reveals its true instrumental soundscape over time. As the track continued, the sounds became clearer and more distinct, emerging from the shadows and fully unveiling their complexity. This gradual revelation felt surreal, as if the music were a living entity slowly coming into focus. The instrumentalists demonstrated exceptional dexterity with their instruments, each one bringing their A-game from beginning to end.
The flow of the bass was nothing short of magnificent. Its rich, deep tones provided a solid foundation for the track, grounding the more ethereal elements of the music. The guitar riffs were ecstatic and thrilling, weaving intricate patterns that kept me on the edge of my seat. The drum beat, however, was the true heartbeat of the track. Its powerful, rhythmic pulse resonated deeply within me, creating an almost physical connection to the music. I could feel the music coursing through my veins, its intensity and vitality impossible to ignore.
The beat underwent subtle tweaks and alterations while retaining its basic pattern throughout the song. I was able to stay completely absorbed in the experience because of these adjustments, which kept the track lively and interesting. The band’s talent and skill were evident in how each shift felt organic and natural. The song was a masterful fusion of passion and melody, intricate and well-composed, and it made a lasting effect.
“The Divert of Perceptions” is truly a work of art. Rise Above Dead has composed a deeply impacting song that is both technically amazing and well-written. The band’s skill level is demonstrated by the music’s capacity to elicit such a visceral reaction in listeners. This song is essential listening for everyone who enjoys instrumental and post-metal music. It is a prime example of how music has the ability to communicate deeply emotional ideas without using words. I heartily endorse “The Divert of Perceptions” to anyone looking for a deep, engaging musical encounter. This song is a real monument to the band’s development and their capacity to write artful, emotive music.
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