Review by Tomek on August 3, 2014.

Endvade is a bunch of Montreal dudes that came up with idea of a mixing progressive/melodic death metal and djent. They got something good going for them and even though the idea may seem like something any metalhead will reject after couple of spins, I got hooked. This is my first encounter with this ensemble and I hope it won't be the last. Ascension could mean that they took a first step to climb to the top and if this is how they begun the trip, reaching the summit shouldn't be a problem.

Musically, Ascension is a combination of well known death metal and prog elements that got mixed and woven together using djent as the adhesive. It may sound like something bad but in fact it is very entertaining and after couple of listens it sticks with you like garlic bread for breakfast. Mathematical guitar chugs that we know and love Meshuggah for and a sound that reminds me of the same is something that jumped at me from the very beginning. Not copied, but rather inspired by and used tastefully. It gave those guys a very addictive vibe and they are making it their own. Guitar riffs, bass lines and drums create a rapturous volcano of sound and never seem to ease off continuing throughout the whole CD. Vocal department adds hugely to the whole experience by incorporating melodic choruses and somewhat understandable growl. It makes songs differentiate from one another and combined with lyrics that are actually worth reading it gets to you and sticks. Solos, groove, melodic lines and ever-present attitude round this into a roaring and howling werewolf on a hunt.

Endvade made a very good impression on me when I first listened to it and all the times after. Thanks to the guys from Silverwings Studios the CD was well recorded, with all instruments clear in the mix and sound that wants to tear your speakers apart. Endvade's music is very energetic and powerful, lyrics are quite interesting, well, the whole thing is done pretty well. What I miss here is extra six or seven songs to make it into an album and kick some major butt. Why didn't they go for it I'll never know but if Ascension can be an indication of what's coming, I think Endvade will be a band to pay attention to and at this point all we can do is wait. I hope it won't be too long.

Rating: 7.5 out of 10