Periphery Ii: This Time It's Personal

Periphery Ii: This Time It's Personal- Album Overview

Released on July 3, 2012, "Periphery II: This Time It's Personal" is the second studio album by American progressive metal band Periphery, released via Sumerian Records. This album marked a significant evolution in the band's sound, showcasing their ability to blend technical proficiency with accessible songwriting. The production was handled by the band members themselves, particularly Misha Mansoor, who is known for his innovative guitar work and production skills. The album features contributions from various collaborators, including Spencer Sotelo on vocals, Jake Bowen on guitar, and Matt Halpern on drums, each adding their unique flair to the overall sound.

The album consists of 11 tracks, including standout singles like "Make Total Destroy" and "Scarlet." Each song embodies the band's signature blend of heavy riffs, complex rhythms, and melodic elements. The lyrical themes often explore personal struggles, relationships, and existential musings, resonating with a wide audience. The album's artwork, created by renowned artist Dan Mumford, complements its thematic depth, further establishing Periphery's identity within the progressive metal scene.

"Periphery II: This Time It's Personal" received critical acclaim for its ambitious scope and musical diversity, solidifying the band's position in the modern metal genre. This album not only reflects the band's growth but also captures the essence of the progressive metal movement in the early 2010s, influencing countless bands that followed.

Review

The sound of "Periphery II: This Time It's Personal" is a masterclass in modern progressive metal, characterized by intricate guitar work, polyrhythmic drumming, and dynamic vocal performances. The production quality is superb, allowing each instrument to shine while maintaining a cohesive sound. Lyrically, the album navigates through personal narratives, often diving into the complexities of human emotions and relationships, which adds a relatable layer to the technical instrumentation.

Artistically, Periphery pushes boundaries with their blend of metalcore, djent, and progressive influences. Tracks like "Have a Blast" exhibit a playful yet aggressive tone, while "The Bad Thing" combines haunting melodies with heavy breakdowns, showcasing the band's versatility. The album’s ability to oscillate between crushing heaviness and melodic introspection reflects the band's ambition to create a comprehensive listening experience.

Highlights

• Exceptional musicianship across all tracks
• Strong lyrical themes that resonate with listeners
• Innovative production that enhances the listening experience

Weak points

• Some tracks may feel overly complex for casual listeners
• A few moments could benefit from tighter editing
• Occasional predictability in song structures

Overall evaluation

"Periphery II: This Time It's Personal" stands as a landmark album in the progressive metal genre, showcasing Periphery's evolution and artistic vision. While it presents some complexities that may challenge casual listeners, its overall execution and emotional depth make it a must-listen for fans of the genre.