Scale the Summit - Demo 2006

Scale the Summit is a Houston-via-LA instrumental prog metal band that began in late '04. Influences are usually obvious with young bands, but with Scale the Summit, only a few reference points come to mind - Atheist, King Crimson, Dysrhythmia, the proggy parts of Between the Buried and Me. For being a bunch of guys barely of drinking age, this band shows much promise.

Their demo has three songs. "Rode in on Horseback" has galloping riffs, odd meters, and sweet guitar harmonies. "Penguins in Flight" does likewise, with some nice chordal bass work. "Omni" is the highlight, sounding like a video game soundtrack, but in a good way. Listen closely, and you'll hear some cool displaced drum accents.

1. Rode in on Horseback
2. Penguins in Flight
3. Omni

The songs are technical, but not overly so. In fact, the band often drops catchy melodies and chord progressions that are almost poppy. Since the band's usual mode is synchronized riffing as opposed to expansive soloing, I can see record labels wishing for vocals here (in fact, I could hear Chuck Schuldiner's voice over some of this material). However, I hope the band doesn't give in to any such pressure, as the lack of vocals opens up possibilities that the band obviously has the chops to explore. Tighten up the performances, boys, and you'll be well on your way.

The band is in the process of recording its first full-length, so look out for that. To pick up this demo (it's free with a T-shirt purchase), or better yet, sign this band, contact it via its MySpace.