Wheel - Charismatic Leaders (2024) Hi-Res

“Charismatic Leaders” by Wheel is a captivating progressive metal album that penetrates and bewitches listeners. The album features several long tracks, none of which feel unwieldy, as each moment contributes to the overall narrative, whether lyrically or musically.

The album opens with “Empire,” an adrenaline-fueled track that immediately establishes the album’s heavier, more metal direction. The song “Porcelain” exemplifies the brilliance of this album, moving, inspiring, and effortlessly flowing between moments of exquisite beauty and devastating brutality.

“Submission,” a near eleven-minute odyssey, showcases the intricate melodic/percussive interaction between the three band members. It’s a song of multiple strong musical ideas that are tightly arranged, flow well, and hold your attention with some truly thrilling music.

Thematically, the record observes the traditional and untraditional notions of being a “charismatic leader” in modern times. The lyrics explore the cult of personality that has scourged western politics in recent years.

In summary, “Charismatic Leaders” firmly establishes Wheel as a formidable presence in the prog-metal scene. Their ability to weave profound themes into a tapestry of intricate musicality is on full display here. It’s a must-listen for fans of avant-garde metal and serves as an excellent introduction for those new to the band’s music