Nowadays, when new styles of Metal are arising from the underground, is good to see and hear how they evolve. And now, more than 10 years after that Metalcore label appeared on the worldwide scene and is recognized as a Metal style by the greater part of Metal fans, it's time to observe as it will be from now on. But I personally think that the style is going to become more and more evolved, and will gather legions of new Metal fans. And bands as NOVELISTS, from Paris (France), are giving a proof of my conclusions on their latest album, "Souvenirs".

Their musical and ideas on Metalcore are done in a way that is not conventional. It's technical and heavy, but the vocals use a nasty and harsh collection of tunes, but without creating some strange contrast. No, here, the use of harsh tunes is compatible with their musical efforts, done with very technical guitar parts and rhythmic works. Besides they are not creating a new path on Metal, what they are doing is very personal, and with lots of a catching energy.

When we speak about the sound quality of "Souvenirs", we must have in mind that Progressive Metal/Metalcore must have a clean sound with abrasive tunes on guitars. And their main target was reached, because their music can be clearly understood, but is abrasive and heavy as the fans of the style are used to hear.

Well, I should name as their finest moments "Earth Grazer" (the presents some very good and melodic guitar riffs, along with an abrasive and melodic insight), the technical and introspective "Ouroboros" (where some very good melodic clean vocals appear), the strong, bold and melodic "Voyager" (where the prime influences from Metalcore appear, like some touches from the melodic Death Metal from Gothenburg. And what a very good work again from the vocals and guitars), "Muchos Touché" and its abrasive mix between Modern Metal influences with some Groove touches, the tender ballad "5:12 AM", and the destructive and harsh "Souvenirs" (filled with very good work in the rhythmic kitchen). And there are two very good bonus songs, "Twenty Years" and "Heartfelt" that all must give a careful listening.

A very good work!<