Neuraxis - The Thin Line Between

Solid technical death metal from the Canadian veterans.

Canadian death metallers Neuraxis have had a few changes since their last studio CD in 2005. They've switched record labels and are now on Prosthetic Records. They also have a couple of new members: vocalist Alex Leblanc and guitarist William Seghers. They've been with the band for a while and appeared on last year's live CD, but this is their first studio recording with Neuraxis.

Even with a couple new members, The Thin Line Between continues Neuraxis' technical death metal sound. This time around the precise musicianship and technicality are there, but there isn't as much delving into the experimental. Instead of veering into unknown territories, the songs are more focused. That has its good and bad points. On the positive side it is consistent the whole way through. On the downside it's not as interesting.

Leblanc does a solid job on the vocals. He doesn't have as varied of a delivery as their previous vocalist, but his death metal growls are powerful and effective. The guitar interplay between Rob Milley and Seghers is good, as they showcase everything from basic riffs to creative fills to highly technical solos. Tommy McKinnon's drumming is impressive on this CD as well, whether he's flailing away with blast beats or playing simpler but thunderous rhythms.

Neuraxis' brand of technical death metal also has progressive elements, which are on display on songs like the eight minute title track. The Thin Line Between will satisfy Neuraxis fans, and keep them in the upper echelon of their genre.