CIRCLES is described as "Extreme Prog Metal," and I would say that is pretty damn accurate.   Their latest album, "The Last One," is the band's second full length offering and third overall, as they also have an EP.  The Australian Metal scene is hot right now and this band will only make that heat go into a full meltdown. CIRCLES could also be describe as Djent, but that is a term is something I prefer to avoid since that sound is fits into the umbrella of Prog.  I could sit here and talk about sub genres within sub genres that grew out from another genre that used to be called something totally different but the fact remains that CIRCLES brings progressive, rhythmic and complexity to songs that are built around layered song writing and structure.

The opening track, "Winter," immediately opens with some of the above characteristics but everything is intertwined perfectly with catchy vocal passages and subtle hints of melody that reveal themselves only after the full scope of the band has been grasped.  Unlike a lot of Prog Metal albums, the ability to enjoy this one isn't based on how well you understand musical theory but how much you are willing to let yourself relax and enjoy the ever changing ebb and flow that begin and end in each song. CIRCLES ignores mindless self-indulgence and the desire to make an album that has to be listened all the way through in a certain order for the listener to "grasp" what they want to say.  Instead, each song is a journey unto itself, a complete story that can be enjoyed in quick bites or one that can be slowly digested until you have reached your fill.

"The Messenger," shows off the rich, full bodied clean vocals of guitarist Ben Rechter.  This their first release with him taking the lyrical helm and he could not had done a better job.  His tone is just so smooth and easily guides the listener through the often chaotic musical landscape.  His vocals are way less whiny and emo sounding than a lot of bands of this Progressive style such as TESSERACT and PERIPHERY. "Arrival" is a clever song that incorporate unconventional sounds that explore other worldly locations, as if the music itself has brought the arrival of a people who have some advancements to share with us.  Drummer David Hunter and bassist Drew Patton evoke this sensation with build-up that begins as a slow burn but picks up the pace with increasing presence that commands attention and peaks the interests contained within.

Those not familiar with the genre might question the alternating clean/heavy guitars working so well with the clean vocals but "Dream Sequence," should put those worried doubts to ease.  Rather than work against each other, the vocals and the down tuned, off rhythm guitars, also joined TED FURUHASHI compliment each other because they allow multiple emotions and styles to mesh into an atmosphere that is at once both uplifting and dark.  "Blueprints for a Great Escape," is the best song on the album because of the constant barrage of the bass and guitars that seem as if the music is whipping down a tunnel that gets smaller as it goes but opens wide just as gets to the point where nothing else could squeeze through. CIRCLES has impressed me greatly and is the best Progressive Metal album I've heard all year.   If you need something to tide you over until MESHUGGAH or DREAM THEATER release new ones, "The Last One," will not only ease your hungered Prog pains but also just might surpass what you are looking forward to.