Passing Thought's "Abstract Migration"

 By Cypress Stroscheim

On Dec. 2 instrumental metal band Passing thought released their single ‘Abstract Migration’ through Old Main Records (OMR). It's the first single Passing Thought has been released through the label, and it's a great way to start off.  

The Wayne State duo composed of Sam Corless and Joseph Corless creates an epic musical landscape through sweeping guitar riffs and heavy drums, along with synth. It is a track I would recommend to those who enjoy the instrumentalization of symphonic and power metal. The start of the song sets the stage for what the duo has to offer musically. 

The track begins with the plucking of guitar from Sam Corless which sounds violin-like, which makes one think they’re in for something more symphonic. Then, the bass creeps in adding depth to the guitar, followed by hard-hitting rhythms from Joseph Corless on the drums.

 The sweeping guitar and the riffs throughout the track bring to mind the power metal band Dragonforce’s song “Through the Fire and Flames.” Like “Through Fire and Flames,” One can imagine “Abstract Migration” being used as a backdrop to an epic fantasy movie, or perhaps on a playlist for one’s Dungeon and Dragons campaign.

Towards the end, there are synth arpeggios that weave in and out of the guitar which add a nice contrast to the heavy instrumental underneath it. The usage of synth in metal is something not seen very often, and Passing Thought used it in such an effective way to add more depth to the song without taking away from the other components of the song. 

The production on Joseph Corless’ part creates a crisp sound on the instrumentals, making it so one can really tune in to all that is going on in the song. “Abstract Migration” makes me excited about what the band has in store for future releases.