From their EPK, “Since 2004, the progressive death metal quintet NEEDLESS has been crafting extreme musical art with intrinsic devotion and genuine passion. Over the years, they have risen to become one of the most prominent powerhouses in the Hungarian underground metal scene. By weaving intricate songwriting with tight instrumental performances, the band evokes the best attributes of traditional metal genres while pursuing compositional perfection. Needless strives to create a seemingly chaotic yet deliberate framework, blending elements from these genres. Their lyrics often explore profound contemplations about humanity on a grand scale. Their third milestone album, showcasing their devotion to extreme music craftsmanship, is presented here,

The album has eight songs, and “Derelict” is first. It comes out of the gate with an aggressive sound and some intricate guitar work. The vocals are near guttural at times, and screams at others. “Metatrons in Sunken Arks” features some fancy guitar work to go along with the heavy weight of the bottom end. This time, they play with a bit of melody, allowing the song to breathe just a bit. The instrumentation here it quite tight, and the band presents their trade with confidence. “Twilight Cradle” has a Folk Metal quality to it, or perhaps a bit of Viking Metal. The keyboards are great…offering some melody to the otherwise punishing sound. The bass work is excellent as well, and the band displays a seasoned sense of musicianship.

“As Our Citadels Burn” mixes in some Classical influence in the guitar work, some audible bass work, and even some keyboards. The vocals are absolutely filthy, but the song isn’t without some melody. “Dark Epiphany” has mostly clean tones with a Gothic edge to them. Again, both the bass work and their sense of melody is excellent. The bottom end of the song is as firm as anything I have heard, but they also tease. “The Outer Reach” has another dark, and firm lower side but the guitars keep moving, offering something that doesn’t stand still, and the classical lead runs hint at a band that knows the past, but offer the future. “Worlds Forgotten, Dreams Undone” closes the album, and they add a plate of ominous Doom to their meal of Death Metal.

Their musicianship is outstanding, as is their timing, and sense of melody in creating a harrowing sound. These things are often hard to combine well. One of the best parts of the album is that they let bassist László Bánfalvi drive himself throughout, and he is animated. The structure of the songs are hardened, bit they use just enough melody to temper them well.  This is a new breed of Progressive Death Metal.