Daniel Steiner burst onto the Vancouver music scene in 2013 with the release of his debut EP Century 21. In November last year, he returned with Born of Stardust, a thrilling and masterful continuation of his journey into instrumental progressive death metal and djent. This latest offering is a testament to Steiner’s refined artistry, delivering an electrifying blend of speed, precision, and melodic complexity.
From the very first note, Born of Stardust is an adrenaline rush. Steiner’s technical prowess is undeniable, with finger-blistering riffs and lightning-fast tempo changes that hit like a sonic whirlwind. Each of the three tracks offers its own unique flavor, making it nearly impossible to single out a standout moment. The EP is a relentless display of aggression and complexity, expertly balanced by a finesse that many artists in the genre struggle to achieve. Beneath the chaos lies a remarkable attention to melodic structure, where intricate harmonies intertwine with ferocious death metal elements.
The self-titled closing track, “Born of Stardust,” shifts gears and offers a more dynamic and emotionally driven experience. Steiner showcases his songwriting prowess here, crafting a piece that feels quite expansive. The tempo slows, allowing for moments of reflection without sacrificing the EP’s underlying intensity. The guitar solo at the heart of the track is a showstopper—rich in tone and dripping with expression, it elevates the song to new heights. This track encapsulates the essence of Steiner’s artistry: unrelenting aggression, limitless creativity, and a raw emotional core that sets him apart from his peers.
What truly stands out about Born of Stardust is its cohesion. Despite the breakneck pace and technical intricacy, the EP flows seamlessly, with each track building on the last. Steiner demonstrates a rare ability to balance ferocity with melody, penning compositions that are as engaging as they are complex. His fearless exploration of textures and his refusal to be confined by genre conventions make this release a breath of fresh air in the progressive death metal scene.
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