XENO is a Progressive Metal band from Middelburg, The Netherlands, that mixes extreme-sounding ingredients with genre-defying passages. Combined with inspirational lyrics drawn from an array of philosophical and personal subjects, they create a unique storytelling atmosphere to engulf and immerse the listener. The upcoming release, "Reconstruction," was released on November 16th 2022 through Art Gates Records. On this EP, they revisited their first album, and rewrote three songs in their new style as a tribute to their past. The album has three songs.

"Columns" is the first; a near-12-minute opus. Tense, symphonic elements lead off the song, with backing choirs. A complicated set of rhythms follow, along with thick bass notes. Mellow clean vocals eventually give way to angry, harsh vocals. Keyboards sprinkle in over top of the harsh rhythms, and already the band has created multiple layers of melody. Just when you think you have the lay of the land, charming piano notes carry the song forward. Then, it's back to the opening sound. Perhaps the craziest part about the song is how many layers there are, but it still follows a linear and accessible pattern.

"Pillars" is an eight-minute song. Opening with a rigorous riff, backing keys, and harsh vocals, the band shows their Progressive chops here in heavily accented passages. It moves forward with impeccable timing, and also expansive melodies. The sound finally lessens at the half-way mark, when clean guitars carry the sound. The sound is constantly changing on the album so far, as good Progressive music does, but it is relatively easy to follow. "Gift" closes the album; a four-minute offering of more straightforward Prog. Eerie bells ring in the background of harsh vocals and weighted rhythms, with an ominous tone.

I must admit a bit of head scratching that the album only has three songs, although with the amount of notes they pack into a song, it makes sense. Perhaps the greatest feat on the album is just that...how they don't lose their way in and out of various passages, exploring all kinds of neighboring sounds, while maintaining the core of the songs. Their talent is boundless, indeed, and I am anxiously awaiting a new full-length soon.