Review by Saxy S for Richard Henshall - Mu Vol. I (2024)

This brief little EP from Haken guitarist Richard Henshall is a very impressive piece. The compositions here are well done and do not feel hindered by the lack of a vocal lead. Melodies are robust and compliment the djent-y jazz grooves remarkably well. I cannot force myself to rate this any higher though because of the intrinsic nature of this kind of progressive, instrumental music. Sure, Richard Henshall is a competent performer and the compositions are of a high caliber, but it is still instrumental progressive metal. So you can expect to hear a fair share of instrumental wankery and just as much elitism from its fans. Still, if it was not an EP, I'd probably rank it lower so take this side project for what it is.

Best Songs: Granular, Mu, Land Aliens