RIVERS ABLAZE is an experimental, extreme, progressive, instrumental, death metal project from Budapest-based guitarist MARTON KERTESZ (From The Sky, ex-Special Providence). This is an absolutely stellar and remarkable piece of work. I know my reviews in the past have caused confusion when I am forced to give high scoring numbers to music that I absolutely detest. We are asked to review music based on some pretty clear categories that I think are based on facts and not opinion. So, if some whiny, piece of crap, nu-metal, punk band puts out an infectious, well-constructed song with outstanding production and really competent playing- I can't submarine their review just because I hate it. So, it gives me enormous pleasure to find something like this, that is not only remarkably well-written and executed- the production is at a level that transforms music into ART.

"Devoid Dying Sun" is nothing less than a masterpiece that takes you on a journey through so many styles and textures it's almost a music history lesson. The technical playing ability on each instrument is equally matched by the tasteful and thoughtful composition. The melodies are heart-wrenching and the atmospheric textures are haunting as you weave and twist through a labyrinth of sound and emotion. There are elements of old school prog, jazz fusion, technical death, and so much more here.

I would compare this to one of my all time favorite bands, "CLOUDKICKER" but where that project has a tendency to fall into some similar patterns in the Djent style (which I LOVE, don't get me wrong) RIVERS ABLAZE really vibes on much more complex compositional styles that are very reminiscent of early GENESIS and YES. And that's the real beauty of this thing, it has so many influences and hints at styles and other bands but is completely unique and it's own sound, paying homage and respect without ripping anyone off or relying on cliches or templates.
This is genius level stuff, get it!