In 2012, US/Swedish group, Soen debuted their first full-length album, Cognitive. The album promptly made ripples in hard rock and metal circles due in part to the band’s all-star rhythm section comprised of Martin Lopez on drums/percussion (Opeth) and bass guitarist Steve DiGiorgio (Death, Testament, Sadus). Those who listened to Cognitive discovered a dark, introspective record with a commanding presence that transcended the stigma surrounding most “super-groups”. It was a brilliant progressive rock record. Two years later, Soen has returned with a follow-up, Tellurian (2014). The album is effective as progression, but it is not superior to its predecessor.

First, what does Soen sound like? Guitarist Kim Platbarzdis plays simple but powerful riffs that have an authoritative punch. The bass and drums are free-flowing and technically demanding. Unfortunately, DiGiorgio did not return on Tellurian. Stefan Stenberg, his replacement, does an adequate job; his bass navigates around the riffs with graceful finesse. Vocalist Joel Ekelöf has a high, awe-inspiring range. His vocal harmonies have an almost cosmic quality that enhances the music but is not dominating. On paper, Tool is a close comparison.

Tellurian has two outstanding tracks: “Tebula Rasa” demonstrates dynamic bass and guitar work. An excellent head-banging track! The vocals are catchy, frantic and the lyrics are singable; a perfect choice for an album single. “Pluton” is memorable for its dramatic highs and lows. The mid-section is spacey and subdued and it is here that Ekelöf provides an ensemble of beautiful vocal harmonies. It is sublime and definitely a high point on the album as a whole. Remarkable!

Overall, Tellurian feels less-structured that Cognitive. The songs are longer, less memorable and contain fewer melody hooks. Also, the artwork is highly questionable! However, the album does flow better as a whole and showcases greater artistic depth. It is definitely a challenging record to assimilate but it does resonate more and more at each subsequent listen. Perhaps worth the time, but Cognitive is still the superior record.