On April 21st, 2015, Native Construct released their debut album Quiet World. It was In 2011,that this three member band was formed. These three students at Berklee Music College in Boston, Massachusetts had also recently signed with Metal Blade records. This progressive metal band has been constructing this album for some time. Multiple segments recorded over the years are now fully compiled into their creative release, Quiet World.
Their pre-released song "Mute" intrigued me. At first I thought it was eerily similar to Between the Buried and Me, given its style and jumpy tendencies. This only motivated me to dig deeper into the album and observe the diversity it had to offer. Quiet World is uniquely amazing, combing influences from jazz, symphonic instrumentation, and rock. It's a lot to accept initially, but the structure and transitions are seamless. The listener is directed through a story that is theatrical in a sense, and ties various genres and composition together to complete a thorough lyrical monologue.
The instrumentation on Quiet World is astounding at some points. There will be a steady metal rhythm producing some structure, only to be followed by a riff that is reminiscent of something you may hear from Queen. From slow persistent introductions, to mighty orchestral demonstrations, you will not know what to expect next. With this being said, this is no chaotic performance where multiple segments are patched together to make a "progressive" album. Each note has a part to play, and as transitions occur between what may seem absurd segments with no relation, the listener will not think twice. Its feels as if the journey through these otherwise chaotic phenomena's are natural occurrences, and do not strike one as goofy, or as if the band is trying too hard. For example, on the song "Passage" has a synth and a rising marching-like beat that leads into a saxophone solo. This sounds preposterous when explained, but to listen and hear the anthem unfold is remarkable.
Another strong attribute is how full this album is, without being cluttered or having too much to digest. Many musicians can show off their abilities through their music, but this does no good without proper writing. A great solo that is ill placed, is easy to ignore. Native Construct is one of the most tactful bands I have heard in a while. There is not a single moment where your left guessing, or attempting to digest what just occurred, what you hear is what you get, and even though Quiet World is quite complex, any level of musical intellect will be able to enjoy this.
The vocals are mainly clean singing, with some screams incorporated. One will not be disappointed or left feeling like there is a lack of harsh vocals, as the presentation will unfold a progressive purpose, rather than a brutal heavy force.
With distinguishable songs, and a progressive and edgy mood, Native Construct has nailed it. If you enjoy progressive metal, and even progressive music in general, Quiet World will spend a significant time not only emitting from your speakers, but also through your mind as the catchy segments are pleasantly recalled and easily enjoyed.
