Negativehate – ‘Shapeshifter’ [Album Review]

Hailing from Western New York, post-metal outfit Negativehate recently released their album, Shapeshifter, which blends elements of metal and prog-rock with spiritual lyrics.

While the band’s previous albums revolved around large concepts immersed in mystical themes, Shapeshifter is less impenetrable, more graceful, and more cohesive.

Guitarist/vocalist Chuck Scandura explains, “The songs on ‘Shapeshifter’ feel less esoteric than previous efforts. Even the non-adventurous listener might be enchanted by ‘Shapeshifter’s’ more fluid and emotional songcraft.”

Formed in 2012, Negativehate comprises Freedom Scheyd (guitar, vocals), Chuck Scandura (guitar, vocals), Eric Stewart (bass), Mike Stewart (keyboards, vocals), Matt Howard (guitar), Sergio Sanchez (drums on the album), and Jacob Morales (drums live).

Encompassing eight tracks, Shapeshifter opens with “Infinity Bias,” traveling on haunting tendrils of prog-rock that oozes both luminous and dark layers of color. A brief bridge shifts the harmonics, infusing them with dissonant, heavier riffs and growling vocals.

Entry points include “Obsidian Dawn,” rolling out on light, chiming tones that slowly build and eventually blossom into a ’70s-flavored prog-rock melody. Sanchez’s accenting snare gives the rhythm a staccato-like effect. Imagine The Allman Brothers covering Emerson, Lake & Palmer, and you’ll have an idea of the song’s sound.

Negativehate, photo by Kimeta Palama

Full-blown metal takes over on “Dreams of the Yellow King,” along with strident, muscular guitars and ghostly, howling vocals. The title track, at once eerie and sepulchral, develops into a guitar-driven post-metal funeral song, drifting yet thick and viscous.

A personal favorite because of its jazz-laced touches, “Hrethgir” features Tommy Bolin-like guitars, imbuing the tune with dirty, heady textures. About halfway through, the harmonics emanate a deep resonance, glutinous and murky with ragged inflections.

Dense and full of dark shadows, Shapeshifter boils with turmoil, approaching chaos, yet never crosses the line into sonic havoc. Negativehate is a band to keep an eye on.

Shapeshifter Track Listing:

1. Infinity Bias
2. Echo Paradigm
3. Obsidian Dawn
4. Dreams of the Yellow King
5. Shapeshifter
6. Hrethgir
7. Luminous Abyss
8. Hiraeth

Run Time: 46:37
Release Date: August 26, 2023
Record Label: Independent