SPACE ETERNAL VOID

"Space Eternal Void" is the debut full-length studio album by US progressive metal act Eniac Requium. The album was released through Shrapnel Records in June 1998. Eniac Requiem was formed by members and former members of Crimeny and Haji's Kitchen and only existed long enough to release "Space Eternal Void" and then disbanded. Drummer Rob Stankiewicz later played drums on "Angular Perceptions" (2007) by Thought Chamber.

Stylistically the material on "Space Eternal Void" is what I´d characterize as archetypal progressive metal from the late 90s. A lead vocalist he can sing the high notes with ease, a technically well playing rhythm section, a brilliant guitarist (nice shredding solos, great clean guitar parts, and an overall good understanding of melody), and a ditto keyboard player (who often just provides atmosphere with chords, but also plays melodic note runs). If I have to reach in a find something where Eniac Requiem stand out a little, it would be that they are generally slightly darker and at times also a little more heavy than other contemporary progressive metal acts, but on the other hand artists like Dream Theater and Symphony X also play some pretty heavy riffs and rhythms, so it´s not like Eniac Requiem invented that or do something vastly different in that area either.

So the music style isn´t exactly the most original sounding, and while that´s always a minor issue, it´s not a huge issue on "Space Eternal Void" because the album is arguably loaded with great musical performances and effective songwriting and fans of classic progressive metal should be able to find a lot to enjoy here. Add to that a very well sounding and powerful production job, and "Space Eternal Void" is definitely worth both your money and time. A 3.5 star (70%) rating is deserved.

(Originally posted on Metal Music Archives)