Chicago’s AUSTARAS Crafts Progressive Metal Opuses On Debut Full-Length; Video Trailer Streaming

Chicago-based atmospheric progressive metal trio Austaras are set to release their debut full-length LP, Prisoner of Sunlight.

Following a four-year break since 2011’s Under the Abysmal Light EP, Prisoner of Sunlight showcases a staggering musical evolution. The post-black metal stylings of the aforementioned EP are almost all stripped away in favour of grandiose musical passages that combine the band’s atmospheric black metal roots with elements of jazz fusion, post-rock ambience, and classic synth-laden progressive rock. Brutal directness and groovy syncopation coexist alongside melodic guitar harmonies, massive choruses, and sweeping analog synth tone. Drummer Adam Hansen’s soaring clean vocals, alongside those of guitarist/multi-instrumentalist John Becker, propel the album’s compositions into epic territories. The massive record is loosely based around an original mythical concept, following the journey of an outcast soul to the inhospitable ends of the earth. It’s an emotionally heavy opus that transcends genres and takes the listener on an enthralling sonic journey.

Prisoner of Sunlight was composed between 2012-2015 and was recorded, engineered and mixed by Vincent M. Ippolito at Swift Road Studios. The record was mastered by Collin Jordan at the Boiler Room and the artwork and layout were crafted by Niels Geybels.

Austaras (ow-STAR-ess) is a Chicago-based atmospheric progressive band, formed by guitarists John Becker and Shane Hill. They first performed live in 2010, and have shared the stage with a wide variety of local and international acts. After working the Chicago underground scene to support their 2011 debut EP Under the Abysmal Light, Austaras took time off to compose their next release. Despite numerous obstacles and major lineup changes, the band emerged with a stronger, more potent artistic vision than before. Prisoner of Sunlight serves as the band’s definitive musical statement.

Prisoner of Sunlight will be available as a high-quality digital download or limited edition CD on November 6th on the Austaras webstore. The album’s official trailer can be found below.

Prisoner of Sunlight tracklisting:

“Deserter”
“Thrones”
“Refractions”
“Threshold”
“Ossify”
“Fractures”
“Reflections”
“Seaworthy”

Trailer:

Austaras is:

John Becker: Electric & acoustic guitars, violin, viola, analog synthesizers, vocals
Adam Hansen: Drums, percussion, vocals
Shane Hill: Electric, acoustic,  and classical guitars

With:
Jeremy Eberhard: Synthesizers, Yamaha CP-80d piano
Richard Stancato: Electric bass, electric fretless bass

(Photo – John Becker)