"EVLN" by Aristic (Feat. Lukas Andersson of Zero Horizon)- Single Review

Artist: Aristic

Genre: Experimental metal, Progressive Metal

Label: Independent

Music: “EVLN” (Single, Feb 26th, 2021) (3 min, 41 sec)

EVLN Credits:

Producer: Mathias - Rexius Records

Mix&Master: Rob - Obsidian Recording Studios

Vocalist: Lukas - Zero Horizon

Design: Alexander - Buhaj Designs

Review of “EVLN” Feat. Lukas Andersson (Single, Feb 26th, 2021) by Aristic

If you’ve been feeling restless or seeking a moment to stretch your wings, it may be time for an revitalization, or change from within - potentially an evolution? Ironically the title of the latest track, “EVLN” (or “Evolution”) by Aristic - featuring Lukas Andersson of Zero Horizon - perfectly summarizes this track specifically, but also what this project is about at the very core. For those unfamiliar with Aristic, the act is an everchanging brainchild, crafted by none other than Swedish maestro, Niklas Runstad. Described as ‘a solo-project that composes a variety of metal styles by inviting different vocalists’, Runstad recruits budding stars of upcoming projects across the scene, such as Joar of Dream Drop, Evvii of NO;IR, Lukas of Zero Horizon, and many others, to feature overtop of his brazen and adventurous compositions. “EVLN” just so happens to be the flavor of this month…

“…The artwork shows a butterfly and DNA in the shape of a sun with a blood-moon in the background.
Did you see that?
EVLN is short for evolution and this song is about how we evolve in life. Going through all different stages to find our identity as grown ups.
I also look on evolution from a parents perspective where there is always a continuous struggle handling the evolution of a child. One step behind at all times.
The butterfly symbolize evolution. An animal being around for the last 50 million years it has for sure seen lots of evolution. Butterflies are known for their stages to become an ”adult” Four stages egg, larva, pupa, and adult. I claim humans have lots more stages in life and the butterfly makes a great reference to ”growing up”.
The DNA is the code for evolution and the shape of a sun symbols what gives life. The blood-moon is the perfect balance. A straight line of the light and dark. The sun and the moon….”
- Explanation from Aristic Facebook Post of “EVLN”

Coming to rest in the wheelhouse of what can be labelled “Experimental Metal / Progressive Metal”, “EVLN” (Feat. Lukas Andersson) launches listeners on a theatrical journey, weaving a myriad of conceptual ideas into an impressively clear storyline. Driven by the relentless undertones of Runstad’s technical and groovy guitar, this piece absolutely screams along a track of effortless riffs, highlighted perfectly by the vocals of Andersson. Channeling at times, vocal tones similar to that of post-hardcore phenoms, Lukas adds his personal flavor and tamber to the mix, shining specifically in the feature plateau of the chorus. Reiterating an impeccably timed lyrical earworm, ”I am your nothing, I am your king!”, Runstad undoubtedly comprehends the ideal structure of songwriting to perfection. While soaring vocals glide over cascading guitar, “EVLN” audibly fades away into oblivion, but is impressed forever in listener’s minds…

A primary benefit to this beautiful approach of musical collaboration is that rather than simply ‘ghostwriting’, Runstad unashamedly takes full credit for whatever he invents, and by doing so, has established a powerful platform to boost other talent into the spotlight. Not having known much of ‘Zero Horizon’ prior to hearing Lukas on this track, it can be stated that there is an entirely overdue discography playthrough which lies ahead… fantastic sound! Magically, Runstad can be found with a finger on the underground’s lifeblood pulse, hand picking artists who seamlessly blend into his work. Writing for them to fit, or writing with them, this enlightened mind finds a way to wreak an adventerous chaos on listener’s eardrums, every single time.

"….I've always been impressed by people who dare to experiment with their music....I really enjoy the band Muse because they do what they want to do with their sound and structures. That's what I want to do with Aristic - .....essentially, if and when I want to change my style I can, because its just me making the choices and I like what I'm doing, someone else will like it too…." - Niklas Runstad - The Dear Untitled Podcast - Episode #27

Destined to blend genres and pursue new challenges, Runstad drives Aristic beyond creative limits, flexing his masterful skills and composing invigorating tracks for every ear. With that said, “EVLN” feat. Lukas Andersson is yet another astounding notch in Niklas’s wall of achievements that he continues to rack up - single by single. - Nic B

FFO: Dayseeker, Casey Sabol, Zero Horizon, Born of Osiris, Blueshift

Other Music:

“Vir4l” (Single, 2020)