PROCEED ON YOUR WAY TO OBLIVION is a technical/brutal death metal band from the U.S. and this is their first release as a band. They are signed to Blood Blast Distribution out of Paris, France, who are related to Nuclear Blast. The band is made up of two members of New Jersey death metal veterans COGNITIVE with Shane on vocals and Michael, who is a live drummer for the band. Nick switches over to bass on this album as he plays guitar for other bands out of Wisconsin, U.S..

"Meteor Swarm" is a minute and half taster of what you are getting into with the album. A little atmospheric pressure build up leads into a crunchy riff backed by very clear sounding double kick and snare. Where there is a pressure rising, most certainly concludes with a mass of release and this is in the form of "Ceremorphosis". Certainly has a lot of technical metal in the guitars as they flow effortlessly along while being corroded by the harsh vocals of Shane, as the more I listen to projects that he fronts, it is impossible for the music to overtake his brutality he brings with his vocal styles. The drums benefit from strong production as it comes across crystal clear and gives you a chance to appreciate the obliterating speed and creative fills that are layered throughout the tracks. Very solid work. Some very fun and probably my favorite riffs on the release come from the next track "Beholder", can't explain why as they are not used much in the track, but adds an element to the song that manifests itself into your mind.

The release is an intense ride, like being a withered wooden boat in the middle of the brutal ocean, you just hold on and wait to see what comes your way next. "Deal With the Devil" is a destructive force in every degree, a relentless and ever changing force. "The Whispered One" is a plethora of strong and creative guitar work from Steve and the mighty bass of Nick, while the ground shakes from the aftershocks of the double kick. A complete destroyer of senses track that leaves you bewildered but wanting more. The last track I will talk about is the complete and well structured track "The Natural End". The track brings everything and anything. A beautiful serenity comes to a crashing end with a sense of bewildered chaos and anxiety. A build up of trust and loathing before the stab in the back. The drums are razor sharp on the track, the bass is meaty with rhythm and adventurous. A very hard hitting track that is built up from the beginning to the end.

The release is some solid work. The musicianship is top notch and the production is crystal clear as it seems that everyone that has touched this album in any way, was on top of their game. The guys are fully engaged within every track and it shows. From the tranquility to the brutality, there is a lot to appreciate for anyone who loves metal, not limiting themselves to specific genres. My hat is off and my horns are up to the boys on this one, really great work fellas!