Past and Secrets, a progressive metal project hailing from Lille, France, returns with their latest instrumental EP, “Another Day, Another Time.” This 22-minute opus is a sonic voyage that blends energy and ambiance, joy and melancholy, rage and tranquility across five compelling tracks. The project, known for its intricate compositions and emotive storytelling, delivers yet another captivating journey that resonates deeply with the themes of life, death, and the inexorable passage of time. Each track is a testament to the artist’s ability to weave a rich tapestry of sound, marked by pounding riffs, dynamic percussion, and soaring solos contributed by an international array of guest musicians.
Track-by-Track Breakdown:
- “Above Us” (Feat. Greg Schollaert) – 05:12
The EP opens with “Above Us,” featuring the virtuosic guitar work of Belgian artist Greg Schollaert. This track immediately immerses listeners in a realm of expansive soundscapes. The opening riffs are both powerful and melodic, setting the stage for an epic journey. Schollaert’s solo work here is both blistering and expressive, weaving seamlessly into the dynamic shifts of the composition. The track balances moments of intense energy with passages of atmospheric calm, encapsulating the duality that Past and Secrets excels at. - “Come On Board” (Feat. Radek Stojda) – 04:37
“Come On Board” continues the journey with Polish guitarist Radek Stojda bringing his distinct flair to the mix. The track is characterized by its driving rhythms and intricate guitar lines, which build a sense of urgency and movement. Stojda’s solo is a highlight, delivering a blend of technical precision and emotive depth. The interplay between the aggressive riffs and the more melodic sections creates a compelling narrative without the need for words, inviting listeners to immerse themselves fully in the musical experience. - “World” (Feat. Brian Bajak) – 04:17
The third track, “World,” features Czech guitarist Brian Bajak and offers a contemplative take on the EP’s themes. This piece is slightly more restrained compared to its predecessors, focusing on creating a rich, layered atmosphere. Bajak’s solo work is nuanced and soulful, adding depth to the track’s already intricate arrangement. The song’s structure allows for a gradual build, culminating in a powerful and emotive climax that leaves a lasting impression. It’s a testament to how effectively Past and Secrets can evoke a wide range of emotions through instrumental storytelling. - “Sleep Well, Little Child” (Feat. Mika Dienst) – 04:11
“Sleep Well, Little Child” shifts gears with French guitarist Mika Dienst’s delicate and evocative performance. This track stands out for its serene and introspective quality, a gentle lullaby amidst the EP’s otherwise intense and dynamic landscape. Dienst’s solo is beautifully understated, providing a soothing counterpoint to the track’s ambient backdrop. The composition captures a sense of quiet reflection and tender melancholy, making it a poignant highlight of the EP. - “Together on a Mountain” (Feat. Demetrio Scopelliti) – 04:13
Closing the EP is “Together on a Mountain,” featuring the fiery guitar work of Italian artist Demetrio Scopelliti. This final track brings the journey full circle, combining the expansive energy of the opening with a sense of climactic resolution. Scopelliti’s solo is both powerful and fluid, driving the track towards a soaring finish. The composition blends aggressive, pounding riffs with moments of serene reflection, capturing the essence of Past and Secrets’ ability to navigate the spectrum of human emotion through music.
Overall Impressions: “Another Day, Another Time” is a masterful display of instrumental storytelling. Past and Secrets manages to convey a rich tapestry of emotions and themes without a single word, relying on the strength of its compositions and the expressive power of its guest musicians. Each track is distinct, yet they all contribute to a cohesive narrative that explores the complexities of life, memory, and the passage of time.
The production, handled meticulously by the project’s founder, ensures that each element – from the soaring solos to the ambient textures – is given space to shine. The guest musicians add their unique voices to the mix, each bringing their own flavor while staying true to the overall vision of the EP. This collaborative approach enriches the sound and offers listeners a diverse yet unified experience.
Themes and Atmosphere: The EP’s thematic exploration is mirrored in its musical contrasts – from the vigorous, almost aggressive energy of tracks like “Above Us” and “Together on a Mountain,” to the serene, introspective beauty of “Sleep Well, Little Child.” This balance of light and dark, rage and tranquility, joy and melancholy, is where the album finds its strength. It’s a reflection of the human experience, capturing the vast array of emotions and memories that shape our lives.
Final Thoughts: “Another Day, Another Time” solidifies Past and Secrets’ position as a compelling force in the progressive metal landscape. This EP is not just a collection of songs, but a journey – one that invites listeners to explore the depths of their own emotions and memories. With its intricate compositions, expert musicianship, and evocative storytelling, “Another Day, Another Time” is an EP that will resonate with fans of progressive and instrumental music alike. Dive into this sonic adventure and let the music of Past and Secrets transport you to a realm where the past and present merge, and the future is yet to unfold.
Check out the EP on Bandcamp.
"Another Day, Another Time" solidifies Past and Secrets’ position as a compelling force in the progressive metal landscape. This EP is not just a collection of songs, but a journey – one that invites listeners to explore the depths of their own emotions and memories.
