Meshuggah raised the progressive metal label to an extreme level of complexity that has not yet been topped. With a mastery of genres such as math and thrash metal, as well as experimental jazz, the trademark of the band is without doubt their ability to create utterly complex polyrhythmic patterns that include all the instruments and even the vocals. Contrarily to other death metal bands, Meshuggah do not pledge any allegiance to Satan, in fact, their lyrics could relate more to philosophical themes that are highly esoteric and conceptual. Meshuggah’s distinct sonic imprint has often been praised by fans and critics alike, and even though their sound does not appeal to everyone, their talent is undeniable.

1998’s “Chaosphere” is the band’s third album, following the landmark “Destroy Erase Improve” which could be qualified as a masterwork of the math metal genre. The first thing that comes to your mind when you listen to the album is: how in hell do they manage to play like that? Yes, the dual rhythm really is disconcerting but it is not as complex as it seems. The secret lies in the fact that the drums usually play on a 4/4 pattern and the guitars, playing in a staccato style most of the time, on another pattern, for example 23/16 (“New Millennium Cyanide Christ”), with the bass drum mimicking the riff. The vocalist sings with a robotic and mechanical bark that usually just adds more intricacy to the whole wall of sound produced by the other instruments; all three components act in a different time signature to produce insane polyrhythm.

Overall, I think “Chaosphere” is a good introduction if you are interested in listening to some Meshuggah. Tracks like “New Millennium Cyanide Christ”, “Corridor of Chameleons”, “The Mouth Licking What You’ve Bled” and “The Exquisite Machinery of Torture” are highlights in my opinion, especially “New Millennium”. What really puts Meshuggah ahead of other death metal outfits is that they focus on tightness, tempo changes and instrumental ability instead of trying to outgrow and outspeed everyone. It may not fit your everyday tastes in terms of musicality and brutality, but this album is really worth a listen, at least.

by Kerry