ANTES DE CERRAR LOS OJOS

Virtuoso playing regarding all band members. Wow, that strikes! ÁURYN is a relatively new prog act from Buenos Aires. Their debut album 'Antes De Cerrar Los Ojos' (Before Closing Your Eyes) appears as a rather eclectic exemplar with dominant metal elements, though offering some jazz, art rock and traditional folk in the same way. The crew is comprised of a quartet, though maybe not the most typical one. This due to the fact that keyboards are totally missing here, what means a second guitarist is involved instead. Hence, over a distance of more than 60 minutes, you can expect a rather heavy rocking affair. Hell, three of them are prolific vocalists too, where the lyrics are overall presented in native language.

The opener Amancay already shines with proper diversity, different layers throughout. Exemplarily mentioned the fantastic Checkpoint comes in a quite experimental outfit, featuring unusual voices too. Definitely an enrichment if you're looking for something inspired. And they don't let up. With the last song couple Un Lento Despertar and Renacer they ultimately are starting up into the prog heaven. Powerful and tricky presence available, also garnered with some sensitive melancholic moments of course, partially accompanied by acoustic guitars. A breathe of fresh air! What a matured album when considering this a band debut. 4.5 stars so far.