Review by Adam M on September 17, 2015.

Leprous has always been about new and exciting progressive music. Their new album continues their spot as trendsetters for this music style with panache. The production on this album is nicely potent to display a collection of songs that can only be credited as stellar at this portion of the band’s career. The opener The Price has a big impact on the listener with its memorable song structure. It’s easily a peak in terms of the greatest songs the band has produced.

This album sees the band streamlining their sound into a fine wine of sorts. Each groove and new riff seems perfectly placed within the overlying music. The sound is intense and futuristic and seems like the culmination of the remainder of Lerpous’ progression. The album is strong both in terms of musical performances and vocally. The singing approach on The Congregation is to be odd, yet appropriate. This results in a tone of voice that is unique and suits Leprous’ approach to perfection. Since the band takes on such a weird style, it is difficult to make comparisons to other acts. Some Amorphis material is a somewhat appropriate comparison because of that band’s ability to push boundaries. However, tracks like the excellent Moon are one of a kind and difficult to replicate. The material on this album is a little more streamlined than the previous two excellent works, but has a more focused edge that is noteworthy. The songs are also memorable and addictive. This is one of the qualities that pushes this album over the edge of many others from this year thus far.

It would seem that Leprous has reached a juncture where it might be difficult to push into new directions, although this is what might be required in the future. As such, The Congregation fits into an outstanding trio with the last couple of albums and is a standout release.

Rating: 8.5 out of 10