Pridian - Venetian Dark

There was a time when Century Media Records stood at the cutting edge of heavy music, home to some of the most innovative and genre-defying metal and hardcore acts like Tiamat, Eyehategod, and others who all helped reshape the heavy music scene. Now, under the umbrella of Sony Music, the label’s roster feels more diluted. Some of the recent signings seem questionable, lacking the bite and originality that once defined the label’s legacy.

Unfortunately, new Estonian signees Pridian appear to fall into that category. Their brand of modern metalcore: a blend of chugging riffs, polished melodies, and glossy electronics sounds all too familiar, echoing the formulaic approach of countless similar bands chasing the same old and tired blueprint. Not that their debut album Venetian Dark released under the Pridian moniker (they previously went by ÆØNS) is a bad record, but by the time the second track wraps up, I'm already tempted to hit the skip button. Their particular blend of Architects-style modern metalcore mixed with Static-X-flavored industrial gloss wears thin quickly, offering little to hold attention beyond the polished production.

Tracks like “Near Dark” and “Idoldust” follow that formula closely, and whether that works for you will likely depend on your affinity for bands like Static-X or Architects. Personally, I’m not a big fan of either, but if those names appeal to you, there’s a good chance you’ll find something to enjoy in Venetian Dark.

That said, while the band shows technical proficiency, I feel they’re still in the process of searching for a distinct identity and could benefit from a bit more maturity in their songwriting. (5/10)

Jason Hicks

Band info: https://www.facebook.com/pridianband
Label info: https://www.centurymedia.com