CHARISMATIC LEADERS

Wheel is a Finnish progressive metal band formed in 2015 in Helsinki by James Lascelles. Since their inception, the band has stood out in the scene, building a steadily growing fanbase and receiving praise from both major critics and independent outlets. The band's sound, characterized by complex musical structures, intense riffs, and profound lyrics, has captivated many enthusiasts of heavy and progressive music.

For first-time listeners, Wheel offers a musical experience reminiscent of renowned bands like Karnivool and Tool. This comparison arises mainly from the intricate way their rhythms are crafted and the dark, introspective atmosphere that permeates their compositions. Like the two mentioned bands, Wheel employs complex time changes, contrasting dynamics, and a deeply emotional depth in both their lyrics and arrangements.

In their third album, Charismatic Leaders, the band delivers a torrent of heavy and intoxicating melodies, filled with dynamism, technique, and diversity. The album stands out for its combination of intricate riffs, challenging rhythmic sections, and rich harmonies, all anchored by powerful vocals. Each track showcases the band's mastery of progressive metal and their ability to create sonic atmospheres that are both intense and captivating.

"Empire", the opening track, sets the tone for the album with its fiery sound. Featuring a brutal rhythm section, energetic riffs, and compelling vocals, its complexity and intensity reflect the band's ability to merge technical skill with emotion, creating a powerful and engaging listening experience. This impactful opener exemplifies the essence of what makes Charismatic Leaders a valuable piece of progressive metal.

"Porcelain" offers an excellent interplay between refined and beautiful instrumental lines and brutal, raw sections. This alternation creates a perfect dynamic, where moments of softness and delicacy are interwoven with explosions of intensity and force. The band's ability to balance these contrasts demonstrates not only their versatility but also their capacity to evoke a wide range of emotions. This track stands out for encapsulating the essence of progressive metal with its technical complexity and emotional depth.

"Submission" is the first of two tracks on the album that exceed the 10-minute mark. Characterized by multiple well-organized and arranged ideas, the piece alternates between engaging melodic moments and passages of aggressive, intense sound. The band moves seamlessly between these different moods, offering a rich and dynamic listening experience. The complexity of the composition and the precision of the arrangements contribute to the song's emotional depth, making it a central and impactful piece within the album.

"Saboteur" is the album's heaviest track, opening with an impressive, hellish guitar riff that immediately sets an aggressive and intense tone. However, despite its raw power, the track also features a captivating and engaging melody, striking a perfect balance between brutality and melodic accessibility. This combination makes it powerful and memorable, establishing "Saboteur" as one of the album's highlights.

"Disciple" stands out with its edgy guitar riffs, pulsating rhythm section, and clear, energetic vocals. The band delivers a dark yet metallic and captivating track. The blend of these elements creates an intense and immersive atmosphere, where every component contributes to a powerful and memorable listening experience. Meanwhile, "Caught in the Afterglow" is a brief acoustic interlude with a sinister vibe, lasting just over a minute.

"Freezer", the album's closing track and the second song to surpass the 10-minute mark, begins modestly with a melancholic melody that gradually evolves into something violent and destructive, maintaining a dark atmosphere throughout its progression. The track's gradual transformation from an introspective opening to an explosion of intensity showcases excellent narrative development, emotionally resonant and complex. It's a stunning conclusion to the album, leaving a lasting impression by blending delicacy and brutality in a breathtaking composition. A truly apotheotic end to the record.

Progressive metal can sometimes fall into the stereotype of overly technical musicianship that may deter listeners who perceive the genre as soulless or emotionally cold. However, Charismatic Leaders breaks this mold, avoiding excesses or showmanship and keeping the listener deeply engaged with impactful melodies. The album balances technical complexity with accessibility, crafting sophisticated and inviting pieces. This balance appeals not only to progressive metal aficionados but also to newcomers, who may be surprised by the album's dramatic depth and melodic clarity.