The DevilsHorns

Cognizance are back with their 4^th album, In Light, No Shape, a mere 2 years after the rather decent ‘Phantazein’. However, things have changed in Leeds, with founding member Henry “Big Mac” Pryce stepping away from the band and vocal duties being taken on by guitarist, Alex Baillie. So what does this mean for the album?

Not a lot really, Cognizance have basically carried on from where they left off, providing a very solid, if unspectacular 1^st listen. The first of 10 tracks, ‘Transient Fixations’ is an intense opener, in spite of a subtle intro. The spoken word section gives a bit of respite, but this is an indication of what is to come.

Throughout the 37 minute run-time, the drums are omnipresent. They proliferate much of the songs and, although superb, they do tend to help tracks fade into one another. By the time 5^th song, ‘Vertical Illusion’ begins, you have begun to lose track of where you are in the album. This is a problem many technical death metal albums have in my opinion, a failing of the genre.

and ‘Witness Marks’ are genuinely improved by top-drawer solos provide at the right time in each song. Excellent stuff!

Vocally, Baillie nails it. He is consistently good, so good you forget whatsisname, the previous singer. Cognizance, as a 4-piece, are moving forward in a positive way.

A final aspect of the album that needs a mention is the fact that it is heavy. The riffs are joyous, particularly in, ‘Witness Marks’ again. Occasionally, you have the odd jarring riff, again a tech death metal trait, but wait for these to go and you will be rewarded.

In Light, No Shape was a tough 1^st listen. The album has its faults, occasionally feeling repetitive, but it has enough strong points to help demand further listens. The solos and vocals are top notch and, as a 4-piece, Cognizance still have a lot to offer.

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