Something a little different today, as Aracksys haven’t released an EP or an album, as such, yet, but have instead put out three seperate tracks over the past 12 months.

Aracksys say rhat they are a project that seeks to merge spacey ambiance and crushing metal, and they fullfil on that manifesto. This is instrumental sci-fi metal that uses each track to vividly capture the essence of its title, telling a story without words.

For example, the first song released, The Enemy Approaches, paints the picture of an alien horde landing on the planet, powered by heavy, chugging riffs and drums that march to the sound of an invasion force, who seem to be preparing to crush everything under foot. The next, What Secrets Do They Keep, actually sees Aracksys ask the question;

The visitors have arrived but why are they here, what do they want from us? Do they come to save mankind or condemn it?

To which I feel the only correct answer is the latter as, after the threatening sense laid out by The Enemy Approaches, What Secrets Do They Keep is a driving attack of fast drums and fast guitar, with an extra dose of heavy on the side, giving the feeling of an utter blitzkrieg sweeping over mankind. And finally, at least for now, we have Loss.

I don’t know the story behind this song, except for Aracksys stating it is;

a tribute to profound loss.

I don’t know if this a personal piece written by a member of the project, or if it was simply written to be part of the ongoing story, but if I had to hazard a guess, I’d say it was the former as they is something inherently heart aching, if not breaking, about Loss. There is a deep sense of tragedy within the music here, though it is mingled with one of optimism as well, as if someone is going through the grieving process and, without wanting to sound all internet certified psychologist, coming to terms with whatever has blackend their soul.

Watch how stupid I look now when a member of Aracksys now tells me that it was a song written about a chicken.

I like Aracksys. I like what they’ve done so far and I like the fact that they’re not afraid to let the music do the talking. I never thought I’d have a taste for sci-fi metal, but after three rounds with Aracksys, I’m hungry for more, and can’t wait to see where the story takes them next.

You can find Aracksys and their work over on their Bandcamp Page.