From Bandcamp, “The idea behind REPLACIRE’s third album was simple. Write some straight-ahead chuggers to feed the mosh pit the next time these bearded whiz kids went on tour. Of course, like any band that’s worth its weight in colored sands, they deviated from that initial thought pattern. After disappearing down a seven-year rabbit hole, they emerged with more mind-bending tech-death workouts. The album has eleven songs.

“Bloody-Tongued and Screaming” is first. Out of the gates, it has a very aggressive, dissonant, and contentious sound, but amidst the accents, there are Progressive elements, as well as hints of melody. The title track has more of a distinct groove to it. But don’t try to count the meter, as it would prove an exercise in futility. The heavy groove of this song is only bested by the high level of intensity in the vocals and guitars. “A Fine Manipulation” borders on pure chaos, but don’t mistake this for a lack of direction from the band. Indeed, they have every step forward carefully planned out. “The Helix Unraveled” is a speedy ride through the destruction ahead of you with a cocksure attitude, expert steering, the gas pedal pushed to the floor, and the nitrous turned on.

“Drag Yourself along the Earth” has a smoother sound without the heavy accents at first, showing that the band can do more than Tech Metal. “The Ghost in the Mirror” is brutal and punishing, and the dissonance from the instruments and vocals is about as thick as early morning fog on the mountains. “Transfixed on the Work” has even heavier accents, and every time they are hit, it’s like finding the sweet spot on a hammer driving in a nail. TWACK! The lead guitar work here is also excellent. “Uncontrolled and Unfulfilled” closes the album. Again, the opening tones are smooth with some animated bass and clean vocals. It grows steadily angrier at times, but backs off again at others. The band is outstanding at their level of control in their music.

This was a majorly intense album that could turn on a dime, roar up like a mountain lion, or retreat with the skill of a mongoose. The band plays with the listener and strings them along for the ride. But every move was calculated, disguised as chaos, and their musicianship was out of bounds.