Epicurean band meetings probably get a little confusing, because 3 out of the 6 members have the first name John. They hail from Minneapolis, Minnesota and have been together for about 4 years. This is their debut CD, which was self-released a couple years ago, but after they were signed by Metal Blade it was remixed and remastered and they recorded two new songs.
A Consequence Of Design combines a few different genres, including progressive metal, melodic metal and symphonic metal. The songs are aggressive, but very catchy. The dual guitars weave intricate riffs and solos while the keyboards add the atmosphere and symphonic elements.
The vocals have a metalcore feel to them, alternating hardcore yells with melodic singing and a few death metal growls. It's a combination of classic European metal and Dream Theater style progressive metal with modern metalcore influences without repetitive breakdowns. A Consequence Of Design is an interesting debut, as Epicurean shows some originality and songwriting skill.
(released March 4, 2008 on Metal Blade Records)
