Prototype - Continuum

Prototype
Continuum
Nightmare Records
8.5/10




Riff-wise, there’s a lot of Megadeth influence happening on “Continuum,” but Prototype fleshes out these ideas to a large degree, balancing their sharp rhythm attacks with plenty of progressive leanings. Kicking things off with a furious opener in “The Way It Ends,” Prototype delivers exactly what fans of the style are looking for, solid vocals, meaty riffs and technical ability. Vince Levalois handles vocals and guitar duties for the group, bringing a convincing presence to cuts like “Probe” and “Synthespian,” which features a blistering bout of rhythmic flair. It’s easy to get excited about a band that delivers with such assertiveness. Prototype not only has the skill, they have the emotion that needs to compliment such brilliant technical displays.

There’s a lot of depth in the group’s songwriting as they fluctuate from a slow-paced, shimmering sensation during “Devotion,” explore a multitude of sounds during “With Vision,” and reach toward warm acoustic sounds on the acoustic aside of “Sea Of Tranquility.” In balancing their progressive outbursts with focused thrashing and plenty of melody, Prototype creates songs that are quite memorable, even while often being highly complex and removed from the norm. You won’t find any immodest wankery here, just excellent musicianship issued with an eye toward the big picture – the actual song itself.

All in all, “Continuum” is quite a strong showing from a band that appears to be headed places within the realm of progressive metal. Futuristic, abstract and undeniably heavy, Prototype has what it takes to make minds think and heads bang. What more could you ask for from this type of group?


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