The Human Abstract

‘Midheaven’

Hopeless Records

They have moved away from most of the hardcore technical, math metal they were known for with ‘Nocturne,’ but the Human Abstract still bring something substantial to the table on ‘Midheaven’. They haven’t departed so far as to say they have an entirely new sound, but the change is noticeable.

‘Midheaven’ is a progressive, somewhat technical record that tends to feature more singing than screaming. THA fans shouldn’t fret as the guys still bring a solid dose of the heavy.

This is a concert record. ‘Midheaven’ follows a full cycle of man while he makes his ascent and discoveries and is eventually brought down by his lust of conquest and greed. Each track has a certain theme and tells a chapter of the story that in the end tie into one another.  

‘Midheaven’ offers a new sound which is equal parts Avenged Sevenfold and Between the Buried and Me; it is fast and slick, yet technical and at times, punishing. The drumming is intricate; the guitars are towering and angular, while the vocals pull the entire work together. Nathan Ells shows his worth behind the microphone, flowing seamlessly in and out of breakdowns, verses and choruses. 

The first half of the record plays mostly as an AX7 album, and it’s not until about ‘Metanoia’ and ‘The Path’ that the BTBAM and classic THA elements are notable. Regardless of the changes here and there, the majority of ‘Midheaven’ should feel like home.   

Rips like:- Protest the Hero – ‘Kezia’- Between The Buried and Me – ‘Alaska’

- Chiodos – ‘Alls Well That Ends Well’