Byzantine is a metal powerhouse. It is just sad that they haven’t become a household name. Every single album that they have put out is fantastic. Each one has its own sound and style. The Cicada Tree continues this stellar tradition of providing solid, forward-thinking metal. You’ve got aggression and melody in equal parts throughout this album. It is just a sneaky album that I really wish had shown up on a few more year-end lists.
Release date: 7/28/2017
Personnel: Chris “OJ” Ojeda-vocals/guitar, Brian Henderson-guitar, Sean Sydnor-bass, Matt Bowles-drums
Origin: Charleston, WV
The list so far:
11. Byzantine-The Cicada Tree
12. Sorcerer-The Crowning of the Fire King
13. Zaius-Of Adoration
14. Royal Thunder-Wick
15. Steven Wilson-To the Bone
16. Pallbearer-Heartless
17. Spotlights-Seismic
18. Cavalera Conspiracy-Psychosis
19. Ancient Ascendant-Raise the Torch
20. Galactic Cowboys-Long Way Back to the Moon