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New York’s rising stars in progressive metal, Sølace, are standing at the precipice of their musical journey as they prepare to unveil their inaugural 4-track EP “Echoes of the Lost” on Friday, May 3rd. This momentous release is not just a collection of songs but a deeply introspective exploration that delves into the corridors of memory, weaving together the echoes of cherished moments, the haunting specters of regrets, and the profound impact of words left unsaid and actions left undone.
Through a tapestry of intricate melodies, thunderous rhythms, and soul-stirring vocals, Sølace invites listeners on a cathartic voyage. Each track is a chapter in their narrative, resonating with themes of love, loss, redemption, and the relentless pursuit of truth. “Echoes of the Lost” is more than music; it’s a reflection of life’s complexities, a testament to resilience, and a bold declaration of artistic vision.
This EP serves as a portal into the depths of human experience, where emotions run raw, and melodies become the language of shared experiences. Sølace’s ability to blend technical prowess with emotive storytelling ensures that “Echoes of the Lost” isn’t just heard—it’s felt, understood, and remembered long after the final note fades away.
Driven by an unwavering passion to forge an unbreakable bond with their audience, Sølace weaves together unapologetically authentic lyrics, spellbinding atmospheric tunes, and at times, thunderous, bone-shaking riffs, creating an auditory experience that transcends boundaries and defies conventions. This EP stands as a testament to their relentless dedication and artistic prowess, promising a visceral, mind-bending odyssey that demands to be heard and felt.
Featuring the emotive vocals of Sean Ryan, the blistering lead guitar work of Tanner Morales, the solid foundation of James Garcia’s rhythm guitars, the thunderous bass lines and harsh vocals of Blaise Cassano, and the relentless drumming of Matt Mone, this formidable quintet is poised to shine through in their respective roles, blending seamlessly to create a sonic landscape that is both intricate and powerful.
Sean Ryan’s vocals soar with emotion and intensity, delivering the lyrical narratives with unparalleled conviction. Tanner Morales’s lead guitar solos cut through with razor-sharp precision, adding layers of complexity and intrigue to the music. James Garcia’s rhythmic guitar work provides a solid backbone, driving the songs forward with unwavering energy.
Blaise Cassano’s dual role as bassist and harsh vocalist brings a raw edge to the sound, adding depth and aggression that complement the melodic elements perfectly, while Matt Mone’s drumming is the heartbeat of the band, with thunderous beats and intricate fills that elevate the music to new heights.
The EP commences with a progressive metal flair in the track “Memory of Light,” characterized by an ethereal introduction that transitions into dynamic shifts in time signatures, haunting melodies, and powerful riffs. Ryan’s vocal versatility is prominently showcased, effortlessly navigating from the lower registers in the verses to the soaring heights of the choruses, juxtaposed with Cassano’s commanding harsh vocals. Mone’s precision-filled drumming seamlessly ties everything together, ensuring a cohesive and impactful sonic journey from start to finish.
Tracks such as “Mountains” reveal the band’s introspective and lighter side. Featuring a melodic atmosphere, refined guitar textures, rim clicks, and tasteful guitar leads, this track showcases the beauty of the band’s musical expression. Ryan’s vocals soar with poignant, yet aching beauty as he sings lines like, “And I’ll hold out hope, ‘cause there’s still time to make a change. And I hope you know, I tried my best to stay one more night with you by my side. One more night with the mountains in our eyes.”
“The Descent,” clocking in at just under 8:30, proves to be an exceptional track with a gradual build-up. This slow-burner defies expectations, living up to its name as it slowly plunges listeners into a whirlwind of aggression. Seamlessly blending clean, emotive vocals with haunting harsh vocals, the song is a rollercoaster of emotions accompanied by pit-inducing riffs that grip the senses.
On the other hand, the closing track “Retribution” is a pure metal instrumental masterpiece. Packed with relentless double bass, gripping pinch harmonics, bone-rattling breakdowns, and captivating melodies, it beckons listeners back for more, eager to discover what the quintet has in store next. This instrumental showcases their technical prowess and leaves a lasting impression, making it a standout conclusion to the EP.
When asked to share their thoughts on the release, lead vocalist Sean Ryan stated, “My favorite thing is how well the EP flows into itself. To me it demonstrates the never-ending cycle of self-doubt, and how love never ends.” Rhythm guitarist James Garcia adds, “The EP means a lot because of all the personal struggles I’ve overcome in the last year. It’s been years in the making and it’s great to finally get to share it with everyone.”
It’s evident that Sølace is only scratching the surface of their potential. This band is poised for a meteoric rise, and it’s imperative to keep them on your radar. Their debut EP is a force to be reckoned with, bound to captivate a wide audience and garner the recognition they deserve. Keep your ears tuned and your eyes peeled because Sølace is primed to make waves in the music scene.
Ethereal Metal Webzine 
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