EP Review: DISTANT Tsukuyomi: The Origin

Over the past ten years, the Netherlands and Slovakia-based quintet Distant has firmly established themselves as a formidable force in the realm of downtempo deathcore. Now, to commemorate their landmark anniversary, the band has unveiled Tsukuyomi: The Origin – an expanded and revitalized version of their debut EP that is poised to captivate both longtime supporters and newcomers to their sonic onslaught.

This comprehensive release features a compelling blend of seven brand-new tracks and six meticulously reworked renditions of the original Tsukuyomi material. Distant has meticulously crafted these songs to not only delve into the band's origins, but also explore the intricate lore and narratives – "The Heritage" and "The Rise Of Tyrannotophia" – that have inspired their music.

Distant's aggressive musical approach is the perfect conduit for their lyrical themes, which are deeply rooted in mythology and personal introspection. Whether exploring the depths of inner turmoil or venturing into the enigmatic realms of mythology, the band's lyrics offer a compelling journey for the listener, inviting them to engage with Distant's exploration of the human experience.

Tracks like "Fleshweaver" and "The Undying" showcase this four-piece's penchant for powerful vocals, energetic drumming, and a captivating fusion of electronic tones and heavy djent riffs. The production has an urgent, intense quality that perfectly suits these singles, underscoring Distant's evolving sonic identity.

One particularly gripping track is "Loveless Suffering," which showcases the band's mastery of the deathcore genre. Characterized by its distorted vocals and aggressive blast beats, the single is complemented by melodic infusions that demonstrate Distant's continued musical growth and experimentation.

Another standout collaboration is "Torturous Symphony," which features a guest appearance from Matthew K. Heafy of Trivium. The intense synergy between Heafy's distinctive vocal style and Distant's heavy sound creates a powerful and immersive listening experience, exemplifying the band's ability to seamlessly integrate guest musicians into their sonic landscape.

The album also features additional guest contributions from the likes of Alex Erian of Despised Icon, David Simonich of Signs Of The Swarm, and Travis Worland of Enterprise Earth. These collaborations further enrich the listening experience and highlight Distant's capacity to forge powerful connections within the metal community.

With Tsukuyomi: The Origin, the band has crafted a comprehensive and captivating exploration of their origins and the lore that has inspired their music. The seven brand-new tracks delve even deeper into the Tsukuyomi saga, offering both new and longtime fans an enhanced and immersive journey. This expanded release is a true "director's cut," solidifying Distant's status as a formidable force to be reckoned with in the metal scene.

Crushing breakdowns, atmospheric soundscapes, and a seamless blend of fresh and re-recorded material – Tsukuyomi: The Origin is a testament to Distant's unwavering dedication to crafting a truly cohesive and immersive musical experience. This release not only celebrates the band's 10-year milestone but also serves as a powerful statement of their continued evolution and artistic vision. Distant has delivered a must-listen for any fan of the heavier side of the metal spectrum.