They say :- Posthuman presents its debut
full-length album, ‘Rise From Ruins’, in May 2010. This release is a big step forward as ‘Rise From
Ruins’ contains more experiment, a fresher sound and tons of powerful energy. Next to a solo
performed by Revamp guitarist Jord Otto, a remarkable grunt choir was used for the track “Ashes To
Ashes”.
Without losing the past out of sight but with its focus on exploring new things Posthuman sets
itself apart from other bands. Taking the stand that all of us are responsible for the course of
history, and therefore also for the future, Posthuman calls upon all to think about the consequence
of their actions. Because remember: The future starts today.
We say :- Dutch four piece band Posthuman have delivered something unexpected in
their debut album Rise from Ruins. This is an album which defies pigeonholing into any single
category or genre, instead it is an innovative blend of Thrash, Death and Progressive Metal, topped
off with the band's own brand of power and melody. It's certainly a positive development from their
pretty darned good 2008 'Into The Void' EP.
The album kicks off with the imaginatively titled 'Intro' which contains excerpts from radio
news broadcasts in various languages telling of some major chemical disaster or other and sets the
tone. The album then goes on to explore post apocalyptic and dystopian themes with some style. Musically
the band are very strong, with the dual Death growl / 'proper singing' vocals working better than
they do in many cases. There are touches of bands like Killswitch Engage and Dark Tranquility in the
sound, but Posthuman also draw on some of the ideas of 'traditional' heavy metal and it is this
excellent melodic side that differentiates them from any direct comparisons.
Although there are clear Death Metal influences it is the more melodic side of Posthuman that
lift this album above the ordinary. There are catchy riffs aplenty in this album, and the guitars
and keyboards seem to be complimentary and not get in each others way.
There has obviously been a lot of thought put into the ideas behind this record. The conceptual
story arc of '2018' works very well as the three tracks which make it up are spread through the album.
The names of these parts (World In Flames, Truce and The Great Revolt) give the listener a pretty good
idea of what to expect. There's even a love song of sorts in 'End Of My Trail', although predictably
it doesn't have a happy ending.
In 'Rise From Ashes' Posthuman have definitely managed to produce a very listenable and accessible
work. In addition there is , for want of a better word, a 'groove' to this album. The tracks gallop
along at a pace and carry the listener along.
Posthuman clearly know how to write a riff and added to the well crafted songs, fine vocals and
catchy keyboard parts it makes for a winning combination. Bet they're awesome live too :)
