Candiria - Beyond Reasonable Doubt (1997)^{Release ID: 6396}

Candiria's goal for a more complete sound wasn't achieved in their then-unknown debut Surrealistic Madness, but I think it might just be in their 1997 second album Beyond Reasonable Doubt! As the band take on Starkweather-like experimental metalcore sensibilities, it seems like a slight change of lineup might affect which path to go. Guitarist Chris Puma (RIP) left to explore different horizons, and taking his place was John LaMacchia who would then be confirmed to be a full-time member for their next album.

The band went to Brooklyn's Purple Light Studios to record the albumwith All Out War producer Michael Barile. As a result, you'll find the usual complex yet listenable compositions with guitars at true thick power.

There's not much you can deny when it comes to how flawless this offering can be, beginning with "Faction", an irresistible blend of metal and jazz. The blend continues to form in "Year One", with incisive riffs and rhythms as changes surround the sound. "Lost In The Forest" is an 8-minute experimental jazz instrumental which seems to weigh down the earlier dynamic. It's the only slightly annoying part of this otherwise perfect album. "Paradigm Shift" adds in tribal groove percussion and a bit of saxophone.

There's some more of tribal percussion in "Tribes", this time brought into the front stage while mixed with more of the cutthroat riffing and vocals. Next track "Molecular Dialect" has some sprawling drum samples which I found out were from the somewhat Dave Witte (Municipal Waste, Burnt by the Sun, Discordance Axis, etc.) who brings interesting color into this interlude. Amazing! Then we have the improbable "Divided". Even "Mental Politics" is excellent, and that one is a different genre from two scenes in New York, rap, which is not really my thing in other times. That proves how well the album shines in diversity.

Then there's the interlude "Riding the Spiral" that's pointless but doesn't affect the album's score. It leads to a more primal highlight "Primary Obstacle". The final track "Intrusive Statements" closes the album with a couple long jazz jams. I wouldn't say it's bad in any way, but while there are irresistible aspects like its energetic attack and urban groove, this would be more pleasing as soundtrack to a cheesy lounge, rather than something for metalheads. It's still quite fun! Ya like jazz!?

How can I not praise the talented genius of these guys? Beyond Reasonable Doubt follows the style of Surrealistic Madness though in a better level that I hope to find more of in their more successful next two albums. There's more efficient maturity that has helped Candiria stand out in the hardcore scene. You really shouldn't forget quite a feat. Anyone here looking for eccentric creativity for a hardcore band? You're in luck! Candiria would have it all in this album and their next two. Beyond Reasonable Doubt shall delight me with its improbable delight for many years to come, and it's no doubt at all!

Favorites: "Faction", "Year One", Molecular Dialect", "Divided", "Mental Politics", "Primary Obstacle"