REVIEW: Assemble the Chariots – Unyielding Night

ASSEMBLE THE CHARIOTS can be considered Finnish deathcore veterans, having consistently released new material since 2009. However, until recently, their releases were limited to singles and EPs. That’s why I was thrilled to learn about their first full-length album, “Unyielding Night,” out since July 19th, 2024 via Seek & Strike. I may be a bit late to the party, and I have to admit I have been missing out on an absolute banger of a record.

The fact that this is a concept album immediately sparked my interest. It adds cinematic value to the music and engages the listener’s imagination. “Unyielding Night” tells the story of Aquilegia, a cursed planet caught in an interdimensional war with a sinister entity called Evermurk, known for devouring solar systems. This futuristic chronicle channels an updated version of ancient Greek epics, such as the Iliad, with themes of valor and predicament. The band also provides some narration between tracks to immerse us in the intricate lore of Aquilegia, creating a mesmerizing listening experience.

ASSEMBLE THE CHARIOTS combine relentless tempos from ruthless drummer Sami Mäntylä with straightforward, lethal riffs meticulously executed by guitarists Kevin Apostol and Niklas Turunen, alongside fresh bassist Mikael Reinikka‘s dark, deep basslines. Add in impressive vocals by Onni Homström, ranging from ferocious growls to ear-splitting shrieks, and you have an epic work of art. Moreover, bombastic orchestrations add another layer to the brooding atmosphere.

After a brief suspenseful intro, “Departure” kicks off what turns out to be a wild ride that never really slows down. Symphonic overlays reminiscent of LORNA SHORE—albeit less dark—are contrasted by furious riffs. The band flirts with a variety of genres, such as black metal in “Empress” and “Galactic Order,” a darker shade of deathcore in “Reavers March” and “Equinox,” and even symphonic metal-esque choirs in “Keeper of the Stars.” The wide range of influences keeps the listener engaged while fine-tuning the storytelling aspect of the album.

The album’s futuristic theme can be a tad overwhelming at times, especially if you are not into that kind of narrative. However, ASSEMBLE THE CHARIOTS have clearly tried to offer something for everyone regarding the general sound of “Unyielding Night,” which somehow compensates for its verbose subject matter. I would definitely recommend listening to it a few times to fully appreciate the intensity and complexity of the tracks.

Undoubtedly, I get some FLESHGOD APOCALYPSE vibes from “Unyielding Night” as well. The powerful melodicism shining through the bloodthirsty riffs balances beautifully on tracks like the opener “Departure” and “As Was Seen By Augurers.” The range of emotions displayed in the story of Aquilegia are skillfully conveyed through the well-constructed details of every song, capturing everything from deep dread to pure hope. The theatricality and bombast are ever-present throughout this album, yet never to the point of excess. While symphonic elements in this shade of deathcore can sometimes feel forced or even out of place, this is not the case for “Unyielding Night.”

If “Unyielding Night” is to your liking, I have good news: this is just the first part of the so-called Ephemeral Trilogy, so fans can expect a lot more from ASSEMBLE THE CHARIOTS. I, for one, am looking forward to it!

Tracklist

1. Aquilegia in Peril
2. Departure
3. Admorean Monolith
4. As Was Seen by Augurers
5. Shimmering, Pulsing Glow
6. Evermurk
7. Reavers March
8. Ephemeral Stream
9. Emancipation
10. Keepers of the Stars
11. Empress
12. Last Line of Defence
13. Galactic Order
14. Equinox

Lineup

Onni Holmström – Vocals
Kevin Apostol – Guitar
Niklas Turunen – Guitar
Sami Mäntylä – Drums
Mikael Reinikka – Bass

Label

Seek & Strike Records

Links

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