MAMMOTH: PROGENIES (2012-2016 COMPILATION)

Great to have this, as someone who digitally (on Spotify in the very least) has the current available discography. To expound, the first three studio albums are only available, and only in part, here in this compilation. It's not every day that I listen through a compilation, but it's also not every day that I listen to an artist that I appreciate as much as Wes THRAILKILL. Keyword: artist. He really is one of the current guitar "greats" we have, in my opinion. [As I edit this, I cringe to think that I actually let him read this review... At least he appreciated it haha.] Before I go any further, this will be my second time hearing those tracks that appeared on Deviations (2016): an excellent album in its own right. I may be reviewing the rest of their discography in the future. Certainly willing to preach the Good News.

Right at the start, with "A Break in Continuity," Wes's predilection for and inspiration from Guitar Fusion is obvious. And welcomed! That was always the draw for me to the modern Prog Metal thing: just how many of his ilk (e.g. PLINI, David MAXIM MICIC, Poh HOCK) are so clearly inspired by HOLDSWORTH and others such as Tony MACALPINE (this is a compliment; they are that good).

If I may further preach here, I would highly recommend checking out the work of TJ HELMERICH and Brett GARSED, two dudes who helped pioneer "Guitar Fusion" as idiom. I most highly recommend the album Uncle Moe's Space Ranch, released 2001, and featuring Gary WILLIS, Scott KINSEY and the excellent Dennis CHAMBERS. Very of the time, at times. Very worth hearing.

Outside of Wes's exemplary guitar work, the drumming of Aliyar KINIK is sooo good... These guys are all so eclectic and talented. Is it Jazz? Is it heavy Fusion? Is it Metal? Is it simultaneously inspired by Math Rock (see tracks 4 and 7)? Yes! Really, seriously, some of the best Prog Metal has to offer us now (and, going on 10 years ago, then!). And they really did a great job of selecting tracks for this! Very well-balanced. Worth hearing how they progressed as a band (to reiterate, from 2012 to 2016). From unadorned (modern) Heavy Metal (and, again, heavy Fusion; see T14) to soft, spacious and reflective Jazz Fusion.

Standout Tracks: 3, 6-8, 11, 12

Seriously, don't sleep on this one.

True Rate: 4.5/5.0