Released on September 12, 2025 via InsideOut Music, “A Memory and What Came After” confirms Asymmetric Universe as one of the most promising modern Progressive Metal projects. The album seamlessly blends technical virtuosity, Jazz Fusion elements, and electronic experimentation, delivering a soundscape that shifts effortlessly between frenetic passages and reflective, atmospheric moments. The sibling duo demonstrates complete mastery over both composition and instrumental execution. Guest contributions add depth and nuance, enhancing the album’s dynamic range while maintaining a cohesive sonic identity. The album opens with “Coquelicot (feat. Richard Henshall),” a standout track already released as a single. It immediately showcases the duo’s signature style: technically intricate Progressive Metal enhanced with subtle Electronic textures. Henshall’s contribution fits organically, adding nuance and richness rather than feeling like a mere guest appearance. “Fair Enough” follows, a high-energy track defined by complex rhythms and interwoven melodies. The interplay between solos and the rhythm section forms a powerful, immersive wall of sound, while Fusion-inspired passages and time changes keep the track dynamic and engaging. The closing section ventures into more Experimental and Electronic territories, offering fresh perspectives for the listener. With “Don’t Go Too Early,” the duo stretches over seven minutes, fully exploring the fusion of Jazz, Fusion, and Progressive Metal. The track alternates between dense, Heavy sections and intricate, virtuosic passages, highlighting both compositional sophistication and technical skill. Experimental segments are seamlessly integrated, creating a coherent musical journey. “Reaction – Overthrow (feat. Jared Yee)” brings a heavier edge while maintaining technical complexity. Aggressive riffs intertwine with elaborate bass lines and intricate drumming, while Yee’s saxophone adds an unexpected, expressive layer, culminating in a climactic, emotionally charged finale. “Recovery – Thirst for Stars” is the album’s most introspective piece. Despite its shorter duration, it blends melancholic melodies, technical riffs, and symphonic textures over an ambient electronic backdrop. The heavier developments in the second half demonstrate the duo’s ability to merge intensity with precision. “Feather on a Glass” reinforces the band’s compositional strength, featuring elaborate riffs, symphonic openings, and virtuosic guitar solos. “Dancing Through Contradictions” ventures into Avant-Prog and R.I.O.-inspired territories, with complex time changes, thematic variations, and expressive brass lines that evoke a sophisticated, modern Progressive atmosphere. The single “Opaco” encapsulates the essence of Asymmetric Universe: virtuosic Progressive Metal infused with Jazz phrasing, complex riffs, and dynamic melodies that guide the listener through an engaging, multi-layered sonic journey. The album closes with “Those Who Stay,” beginning with a delicate, atmospheric introduction that gradually builds in intensity. The track flows from a Jazzy, Rock-infused section into a technically and emotionally charged Progressive Metal finale, providing a satisfying conclusion to the album. “A Memory and What Came After” showcases the musical vision of two highly skilled brothers, capable of blending Progressive Metal with Jazz, Fusion, and Experimental electronics without ever sacrificing cohesion. Guest appearances add further value, seamlessly integrating into already well-crafted compositions. Rich in ideas, technical skill, and emotional nuance, this album rewards repeated listening, revealing subtle layers and details with each play. Asymmetric Universe demonstrates that the future of Progressive Metal remains bright, and InsideOut Music has successfully captured their sound in a compelling, must-listen release.
Tracklist
01. Coquelicot (feat. Richard Henshall) (04:38)
02. Fair Enough (04:35)
03. Don’t Go Too Early (07:27)
04. Reaction – Overthrow (feat. Jared Yee) (05:40)
05. Recovery – Thirst for Stars (03:34)
06. Feather on a Glass (05:16)
07. Dancing Through Contradictions (05:38)
08. Opaco (05:01)
09. Those Who Stay (06:22)
Lineup
Federico Vese / Guitars, Vocals, Synthesizers, Drums & Winds Arrangement
Nicolò Vese / Bass, Piano, Synthesizers, Strings & Winds Arrangement
Studio Musicians:
Gabriele Bullita / Drums
Simone Garino / Saxophones
Cesare Mecca / Trumpets
Raul Roa / Violins (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9), Viola (1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 9)
Mitja Liboni / Cello (1, 4, 5, 6, 9)
Moisés Pirela / Viola (3)
Eugenio Catale / Cello (3)
Guest Musicians:
Richard Henshall / Guest Guitar Solo (1)
Jared Yee / Guest Saxophone Solo (4)