On October 18, 2024, progressive metal outfit THE HYPOTHESIS releasef their upcoming new album "Evolve" on Noble Demon. Hailing from the darkened realm of Kouvola, Finland, THE HYPOTHESIS was founded in 2009 as a melodic metal entity driven by the desire to break free from genre constraints and evolve with each musical endeavor. With former members now playing in renowned bands such as OPETH and STRATOVARIUS, THE HYPOTHESIS is a powerhouse quartet with a relentless drive for musical excellence.”

The album has nine songs, and “Wanderer” is first.  The opening tones are a bit mellow, until the crunch of the big riff slams in. One thing that is evident immediately is the band’s high level of technical prowess. A combination of both clean and harsh vocals brings light and darkness to the song, in contrast. “Here I Stand” has a firm bite from a weighted riff and harsh vocals, but again, in an exercise of contrast, clean vocals wash away the filth. The keyboards add layers of mystery as well. “Watch the World Burn with Me” begins with bright vocal harmonies, that cut through the shroud of heavy guitars like a sharp knife through warm butter. Keyboards are there in support once more.

The title track comes out of the gates high in both melody and structure. The lack of harsh vocals allows the listener to really take in the crux of their sound, and it is glorious. “Where the Dreams Come to Die” has a heavy groove that holds down the bottom end underneath more catchy melodies. The lead guitar work here is fantastic. They could have used it in some dazzling display of musicianship, but instead, they used it in support of the overall melody. “From the Ashes” begins with the steady thump of heavy bass, and when the main sound opens up, it treats the listener to a much wider point of view. Even the sting of harsh vocals is backed with melody. It’s all about balance.

“Thousand Skies” is another song strong in both melody and toughness. The harsh vocal sections are punishing, but the melody rises through it like a beacon of light through the heavy morning fog. “Stray” closes the album. Glittering keyboards combine with a rough, catchy riff, and the groove will send you straight forward with the band. Asko really lets a lead guitar run fly here as well, and it is incredible. One of the best parts of the album was how the band held some of the Progressive elements in check, and let the melody do much of the talking. There are still the hardened structures of Metal but they are tempered with hooks. I can’t say this enough…this album is all about a great balance.