Here we have “Cryptic Aura”, the new full-length album from AZURE EMOTE. An album that steps into a new territory, combining Death Metal with tons of experimental sounds. An album not for passive listening. It demands your attention, urging you to lose yourself in the dark, intricate corners it has inside. Unlike their earlier releases, “Cryptic Aura” is a complete journey. Here, the band balances brutality with symphonic passages, some industrial textures and unexpected Jazz elements into their chaotic Death Metal journey. Mike Hrubovcak’s vocals and keyboard work are central to this atmosphere, while a line-up of impressive guest musicians, such as Anna Murphy’s on clean vocals and Pete Johansen’s haunting violin bring a unique flavor to the album.Though the album can be disorienting at times, as it goes between extremes of sounds and experimental passages, it never feels incoherent at all. I was able to understand it. Each song feels like part of a large narrative, inviting listeners to experience the full depth of its chaotic beauty, like storytelling. “Cryptic Aura” is an album that (for sure) rewards patience and multiple listens, revealing new textures with each time. It’s not an easy one, believe me. You will feel kind of confused, but if you pay close attention, you’ll get it. It happened to me. For me, this is an ambitious release from AZURE EMOTE. An album that goes beyond are regular expectations for a Death Metal release and that will meet its own criteria. The cryptic aura lingers long after the final track. Give it a chance. More info here: www.facebook.com/azureemote, www.facebook.com/testimonyrecords