Introduction to Born of Osiris
Born of Osiris, an influential force in the metalcore and progressive metal scenes, emerged from the vibrant Chicago music scene in 2003. Originally formed under the name “Diminished,” the band underwent several lineup changes and eventually adopted the moniker Born of Osiris, a name inspired by the Egyptian god of the afterlife. This name change marked the beginning of their journey towards establishing a unique sonic identity.
The band’s core lineup solidified with Ronnie Canizaro (vocals), Lee McKinney (guitar), and Joe Buras (keyboards, vocals). Over the years, they have been joined by a rotating cast of skilled musicians, each contributing to the evolution of their sound. Born of Osiris is renowned for their technical proficiency, blending intricate guitar work, complex drumming, and atmospheric keyboard arrangements. Their music is a seamless fusion of aggressive metalcore elements and the expansive, experimental qualities of progressive metal.
Born of Osiris differentiates themselves through their ability to balance brutality with melody. Their compositions often feature rapid tempo changes, syncopated rhythms, and virtuosic solos, all while maintaining a cohesive melodic thread. This dynamic approach has earned them a dedicated following and critical acclaim within the metal community. They are credited with pushing the boundaries of the genre, influencing a new wave of bands that seek to combine technical prowess with emotional depth.
As we delve deeper into Born of Osiris’s discography, critical reception, and their impact on the metal genre, it becomes clear that their innovative approach and relentless pursuit of musical excellence have cemented their status as pioneers. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to their music, exploring Born of Osiris’s sonic landscape offers a rich and rewarding experience.
Discography: Albums and Key Songs
Born of Osiris, an influential force in the progressive metalcore genre, has crafted a distinctive sonic landscape through their evolving discography. The band’s debut album, The New Reign (2007), introduced their technical prowess and intricate compositions. Tracks like “Brace Legs” and “Bow Down” set the stage for their complex musicality, blending aggressive riffs with atmospheric synths.
Their follow-up, A Higher Place (2009), saw the band expanding their sound with more melodic elements. Songs such as “Now Arise” and “Exist” showcased their ability to balance heaviness with intricate melodies. Subsequent releases like The Discovery (2011) and Tomorrow We Die Alive (2013) cemented their place in the metal scene. The Discovery is particularly noted for tracks like “Follow the Signs” and “Recreate,” which feature complex time signatures and a blending of electronic elements.
Continuing their trend of innovation, Soul Sphere (2015) and The Eternal Reign (2017) pushed their musical boundaries further. “The Other Half of Me” and “Glorious Day” from Soul Sphere exhibit their thematic exploration of existential and philosophical themes. Meanwhile, The Eternal Reign revisits and reimagines their debut, adding new layers to their early work.
Their 2019 album, The Simulation, is a testament to their enduring relevance. Tracks like “Silence the Echo” and “Cycles of Tragedy” highlight their continued evolution, blending technical proficiency with modern production techniques. Their latest work, Angel or Alien (2021), features standout songs such as “Poster Child” and the title track, showcasing their growth and adaptability in a rapidly changing musical landscape.
Thematically, Born of Osiris frequently explores introspective and existential topics, often delving into the human experience and metaphysical inquiries. Their lyrical content, combined with their dynamic sound, has resonated deeply with fans, ensuring their continued influence in the metal genre.
Critical and Fan Reviews
Born of Osiris has garnered a diverse array of reviews from both critics and fans throughout their career, reflecting their evolving sound and the impact they have had on the metal community. Major music publications such as Metal Hammer, Kerrang!, and Revolver have often lauded the band’s technical prowess and innovative approach to the genre. Their early albums, like The New Reign and A Higher Place, were praised for their intricate instrumentation and blend of progressive metalcore elements. Critics highlighted their ability to push the boundaries of the genre, creating a unique sonic landscape that set them apart from their peers.
Fan reactions have generally mirrored the critical acclaim, with many long-time listeners expressing admiration for the band’s technical skills and dynamic live performances. Born of Osiris’s live shows are frequently cited as a highlight, characterized by their high energy and precise execution. However, some fans have noted a shift in the band’s sound with recent releases, such as Soul Sphere and The Simulation. While these albums have still received positive feedback, the incorporation of more electronic elements and a polished production style has sparked a mixed response among the audience. Some fans appreciate the evolution, while others yearn for the raw intensity of the earlier work.
Over time, the band’s reception has shown a clear trajectory of growth and adaptation. The critical and fan reviews collectively depict a band unafraid to experiment and evolve, even if it means polarizing their audience. This willingness to innovate has solidified their standing in the metal community, where they are respected for their contribution to the genre’s progression. The overall impact of these reviews on Born of Osiris’s career has been significant, providing both validation and constructive feedback that the band has used to refine their sound and approach.
Biography and Impact on the Metal Scene
Born of Osiris, an American progressive metalcore band, was formed in 2003 in Palatine, Illinois. The band initially went by different names, including Diminished and Your Heart Engraved, before settling on their current moniker, which is a reference to the ancient Egyptian god Osiris. The founding members—Ronnie Canizaro (vocals), Joe Buras (keyboards, vocals), Lee McKinney (guitar), Cameron Losch (drums), and David Darocha (bass)—came together with a shared passion for combining technical prowess with melodic elements, creating a unique sound that would soon leave a lasting impression on the metal scene.
Throughout their career, Born of Osiris has undergone several lineup changes, with significant additions including Jason Richardson (guitar) and Nick Rossi (bass). Despite these changes, the core of the band’s sound has remained consistent, characterized by intricate guitar riffs, atmospheric keyboard layers, and dynamic vocal deliveries. Their early influences include bands like Meshuggah, The Faceless, and Between the Buried and Me, which are evident in their complex song structures and technical proficiency.
Key milestones in their career include the release of their debut album, The New Reign (2007), which garnered critical acclaim and established them as a formidable force in the metalcore genre. Subsequent albums such as A Higher Place (2009), The Discovery (2011), and Tomorrow We Die Alive (2013) further solidified their reputation, showcasing their evolution and experimentation within the genre. The band has also embarked on numerous major tours, sharing stages with prominent acts like August Burns Red, Veil of Maya, and After the Burial, expanding their influence and fanbase globally.
Born of Osiris has significantly impacted the metal scene, inspiring a new wave of bands that blend technicality with melody. Their innovative approach has contributed to the evolution of sub-genres within metal, pushing the boundaries of what metalcore can be. As pioneers of progressive metalcore, they have opened doors for emerging artists and have set a high standard for musicianship and creativity in the genre.
Looking ahead, Born of Osiris continues to explore new sonic territories, with their recent releases hinting at an even more diverse and expansive future. As they navigate the ever-evolving landscape of metal music, their legacy remains firmly rooted in their ability to innovate and inspire, ensuring their place as influential figures in the metal community for years to come.