Western Australia-based four-piece band Neomantra is making waves in the metal scene with both their past and present releases. Led by Royce Zanetic on guitars and vocals, alongside Jarod Callow on guitar, Lee Afentopoulos on bass, and Greg Turner on drums, the band delivers intense post-metal soundscapes. Known for blending crushing riffs with deep philosophical themes, Neomantra brings a fresh and thought-provoking edge to the genre. Their powerful instrumentation and lyrical exploration of weighty topics make them a standout force in today’s metal scene, continuing to captivate fans with every release.
This EP was released last September 27, 2024, Paranosis was an EP produced and engineered by Chad Blondel of Foxhole Recording Studios and mastered by Forrester Savell, mixed with creative inputs from Drew Goddard of KARNIVOOL. This record is a continuation of their past record Henosis, which was also an EP. This record was praised by the masses because of its thought-provoking lyricism and philosophy. Their dark era has also begun from this EP, making it more exciting to look forward to their next release, which happens to be Paranosis. Fans are eager to see where this dark journey leads next.
The album opens with the hard-hitting and chilling track Consciousness, immediately immersing listeners in its philosophical depth. The song’s weighty themes are complemented by powerful instrumentals, featuring aggressive guitar riffs and pounding drums that blend seamlessly with its reflective lyrics. The thought-provoking exploration of human consciousness encourages listeners not only to appreciate the music but to consider the profound ideas it presents.
Following Consciousness is Astral Prison, a track that delves into the darker side of eternal life. With its heavy guitars and mesmerizing yet intense vocals, the song adds a sense of urgency and existential dread. Together, these two tracks set the tone for a reflective and intense listening experience, inviting listeners to engage with both the philosophical and sonic aspects of the album. The combination of crushing instrumentals and deep lyricism creates a captivating start to the album, making it a memorable journey from the very beginning.
The center of this album falls on Dualism II, a song that focuses on its instrumental more than its lyricism. This song oddly has only 5 lines for its entire runtime. This track started with slow drums, faint vocals, and melodious guitar strumming that grew bit by bit and intensifies as it reaches the end of the track.
Post-Dualism II comes Boltzmann Brain (Thought Experiment). This track releases the bolder, angrier, more savage side of the band’s vocals and instrumentals. It gives off a thriller series soundtrack vibe which also makes the listener’s feelings heavier, proving how good they were at incorporating emotions and feelings through their songs.
Arriving at the conclusion, we end with Atman Brahman. A song that will make your heart pound along with its sick-sounding drum beats and heavy, apocalyptic-like atmosphere all throughout the song. This song is the perfect conclusion for this EP, rounding up all the emotions and feels we felt while listening to the other four.
This EP for sure is one for the books. It is unique, brilliant, and special in its own accord. Neomantra might have something special to offer besides Paranosis, so make sure to give them a follow on their social media platforms and music streaming site accounts.
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About the Author
Angel Mariah Rodiel – Mari to the people she’s fond of – is a BA Literature student currently studying in Central Luzon State University. Writing, arts, and music are some of the things she’s been most passionate about ever since she was a kid. Mari’s little dream is to build a band that will open for Paramore’s concert someday. Pop-punk and alternative rock are her comfort music genres, K-pop and J-rock comes close as third and fourth.
