Biography of Animals as Leaders
Animals as Leaders, an American instrumental progressive metal band, emerged in 2007 under the creative vision of guitarist Tosin Abasi. Its formation marked a significant milestone in the progressive metal scene, primarily due to its unique approach to instrumental music. Abasi, who had previously been part of the band Reflux, was initially hesitant to pursue a solo project. However, encouragement from Prosthetic Records led him to embrace the opportunity, culminating in the inception of Animals as Leaders.
The band’s self-titled debut album, released in 2009, was a groundbreaking entry into the progressive metal genre. The album showcased Abasi’s virtuosic guitar skills and introduced the world to the complex, multi-layered compositions that would become the band’s signature style. Misha Mansoor, a prominent figure in the progressive metal community, played a pivotal role in the production of the debut album, further solidifying its success.
Animals as Leaders experienced several changes in its lineup over the years. Initially, Tosin Abasi was joined by guitarist Javier Reyes and drummer Navene Koperweis. Koperweis departed from the band in 2012, making way for Matt Garstka, whose technical proficiency on the drums added a new dimension to the band’s sound. This trio—Abasi, Reyes, and Garstka—has since become the core lineup, propelling the band to new heights.
The musical style of Animals as Leaders is characterized by its fusion of various influences, including jazz, classical, and electronic music, melded with the heavy, intricate structures of progressive metal. Their compositions often feature complex polyrhythms, intricate guitar tapping techniques, and atmospheric soundscapes, setting them apart from their contemporaries. This innovative approach has earned them a dedicated following and significant critical acclaim within the progressive metal community.
Throughout their career, Animals as Leaders have continued to evolve, consistently pushing the boundaries of their genre. From their initial signing with Prosthetic Records to their rise to fame, the band has maintained a reputation for technical excellence and creative ingenuity. Their influence on the progressive metal scene is undeniable, inspiring countless musicians and contributing to the ongoing evolution of the genre.
Discography: Albums by Animals as Leaders
Animals as Leaders’ discography reflects the band’s journey through progressive metal and instrumental prowess. Their self-titled debut album, released in 2009, introduced the world to Tosin Abasi’s virtuoso guitar skills and innovative compositions. Produced by Misha Mansoor of Periphery, the album featured complex polyrhythms and intricate melodies, earning critical acclaim and establishing the band’s unique sound. Notable tracks include “CAFO” and “On Impulse,” which showcased their technical mastery and set the stage for future releases.
In 2011, the band released ‘Weightless,’ marking a significant evolution in their sound. This album saw the addition of guitarist Javier Reyes and drummer Navene Koperweis, which brought a fuller, more textured sound. The recording process emphasized electronic elements and layered guitar arrangements, broadening their sonic palette. Tracks like “Do Not Go Gently” and “David” received praise for their sophisticated compositions and rhythmic complexity, further solidifying the band’s reputation in the progressive metal scene.
‘The Joy of Motion,’ released in 2014, is often considered a pinnacle in Animals as Leaders’ career. The album’s production involved collaboration with industry stalwarts such as Misha Mansoor and Adam “Nolly” Getgood. It featured a blend of intricate guitar work, electronic influences, and dynamic rhythms. Standout tracks like “Physical Education” and “Lippincott” were lauded for their innovation and musicality. The album received widespread acclaim, both from fans and critics, and showcased the band’s continued growth.
In 2016, ‘The Madness of Many’ emerged as another testament to the band’s evolving sound. This album was entirely self-produced, reflecting their growing confidence and mastery in the studio. It featured a more organic and experimental approach, with tracks like “Arithmophobia” and “The Brain Dance” highlighting their daring musical exploration. The album’s reception was generally positive, noting the band’s willingness to push boundaries and explore new sonic territories.
Their latest release, ‘Parrhesia’ in 2022, continues this trajectory of musical evolution. With this album, Animals as Leaders returned to their roots while integrating new influences and techniques. The recording process was marked by a collaborative effort among the members, resulting in a cohesive and innovative sound. Tracks such as “Monomyth” and “The Problem of Other Minds” exemplify their technical prowess and creative vision. The album has been well-received, reflecting the band’s enduring ability to captivate and inspire their audience.
Through each album, Animals as Leaders have demonstrated remarkable growth and adaptation, continually redefining their sound and pushing the boundaries of progressive metal. Their discography stands as a testament to their artistic journey and enduring influence in the genre.
Notable Songs by Animals as Leaders
Animals as Leaders, the instrumental progressive metal band, has carved out a distinctive niche through their exceptional technical skills and innovative compositions. Among their most notable tracks, “CAFO” stands out as a quintessential example of their complex musical architecture. The song is characterized by rapid time signature changes, intricate guitar work, and a relentless rhythmic drive. Tosin Abasi’s eight-string guitar delivers a myriad of riffs and solos that push the boundaries of conventional metal, while the drumming provides a robust backbone of complex polyrhythms. “CAFO” is a testament to the band’s ability to blend technical virtuosity with raw energy.
“Tempting Time,” another fan favorite, opens with a flurry of tapping techniques that immediately capture the listener’s attention. The song progresses through a landscape of contrasting dynamics, from serene, melodic passages to aggressive, percussive segments. This track exemplifies the band’s mastery of tension and release, creating an engaging listening experience that keeps the audience on their toes. The intricate interplay between guitar and bass lines showcases the band’s cohesive unity and technical precision.
“The Woven Web” is renowned for its intricate layering and textural richness. The track features a blend of clean and distorted tones, creating a sonic tapestry that is both complex and captivating. The song’s structure allows for seamless transitions between different musical ideas, making it a prime example of Animals as Leaders’ compositional sophistication. The use of extended-range guitars adds depth and dimension to the track, highlighting the band’s innovative approach to instrumentation.
Lastly, “Ectogenesis” demonstrates the band’s ability to merge melody with complexity. The song is marked by its fluid, almost ethereal guitar lines that weave through a dense rhythmic foundation. The interplay between melodic motifs and syncopated rhythms creates a dynamic and immersive soundscape. This track underscores Animals as Leaders’ prowess in crafting music that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant.
These songs not only highlight Animals as Leaders’ technical skill and creative ingenuity but also underscore their significant impact on the progressive metal genre. Each track offers a glimpse into the band’s artistic vision, pushing the boundaries of what instrumental music can achieve.
Critical and Fan Reviews of Animals as Leaders
Animals as Leaders have garnered significant attention from both critics and fans since their inception. Critically acclaimed for their technical prowess and innovative sound, the band has consistently received positive reviews across various platforms. Renowned music magazine Rolling Stone has praised the band for their “intricate, almost orchestral approach to progressive metal,” highlighting the complex compositions and exceptional musicianship of guitarist Tosin Abasi. Similarly, Guitar World lauds the band’s ability to “push the boundaries of what instrumental music can achieve,” emphasizing their role in redefining the genre.
Albums such as Weightless and The Madness of Many have been particularly well-received, with critics noting the band’s seamless blend of technical metal, jazz, and electronic influences. In a review by AllMusic, the band’s self-titled debut album was described as a “revolutionary release” that set a new standard for instrumental metal. Critics from Pitchfork and Metal Injection have echoed similar sentiments, often highlighting the band’s experimental nature and the precision of their performances.
Fan reviews, drawn from social media platforms, forums, and websites like Rate Your Music, also reflect a strong admiration for Animals as Leaders. Fans frequently commend the band’s technical skill, particularly the virtuosic guitar work of Abasi and Javier Reyes. Common themes in fan reviews include appreciation for the innovative use of extended-range guitars and the dynamic, genre-blending compositions that characterize the band’s music. On platforms like Reddit and Facebook, fans often express their anticipation for new releases and their enthusiasm for the band’s live performances, which are noted for their energy and precision.
However, some recurring criticisms have emerged. A portion of both critics and fans have occasionally described the music as overly complex or lacking in emotional depth, suggesting that the technical focus can sometimes overshadow the melodic elements. Despite these critiques, the overall reception of Animals as Leaders remains overwhelmingly positive.
Over time, the reception of Animals as Leaders has evolved, with the band gaining a broader and more diverse audience. Their influence on the progressive metal community is undeniable, inspiring a new generation of musicians to explore the boundaries of technical and instrumental music. As they continue to innovate, both critical and fan reviews suggest that Animals as Leaders will remain a pivotal force in the genre.