AFASICA is an instrumental, Progressive Rock/Metal band hailing from Spain. Following the release of a self-titled EP in 2016, they are now back with "Papirolepsia," which contains five tracks. I wasn't able to gather much information on the band, and they did not submit any bio info in their EPK. So, let's get down to the music here.

"Contienda" leads off the album. It's a short mood setter. The mood is somber, from pulsing keys and bells. Drums join in, with a slow march. It segues into "Apofendia," which begins with clean guitars and bass notes. Distorted guitars come in, and they play with the meter a bit, with heavy accents. The musicians here are quite skilled at their instruments. "Tardigrada" is the longest on the album, clocking in at just under seven minutes in length. Guitars and bass play in unison at first, along with some lead notes. The lead section with thick bass lines underneath is nicely done.

"Luciferina" begins with solemn clean guitars, and some light drumming. I love the bass work here. The also build a little stronger melody in this track. I like the nature of the rhythm guitars. The lead passage is skillfully done. The melancholy nature of this song works, and works well. Segueing into the final song, "Tregua," are the sounds of soft rain falling along with some wind whipping up in the background. Clean acoustic guitars leave the album on a saddened note. As it fades away, you feel lost.

The entire album has a dark cloud hanging over it that they band never comes out of. It is clear that they are talented musicians, but they never quite hit that sweet spot when it comes to emotionally charged music. There are close moments, like in "Luciferina," and some of the other tracks. Still, it's an album worthy of your time if you are into instrumental Progressive music, and well produced.