The Best Tech-Death Albums of the 2020s: Insights from Allegaeon’s Greg Burgess
Greg Burgess, the talented guitarist of Allegaeon, has been a cornerstone of the band for over 15 years. Renowned for his ability to weave technical, progressive, and melodic elements into Allegaeon’s distinctive sound, Burgess embodies the spirit of modern tech-death. When approached to list standout albums from the 2020s, he exceeded expectations by sharing ten exceptional picks, highlighting his deep passion for the genre.
Understanding Allegaeon
Origin: Colorado
Debut Album: Fragments of Form and Function (2010)
Latest Release: The Ossuary Lens
Following their 2022 release, Damnum, Allegaeon has undergone another lineup change, reintroducing vocalist Ezra Haynes after the exit of Riley McShane. This shift has allowed the band to evolve, creating a fresh foundation of extreme sounds for Haynes to explore vocally.
Burgess reflects on the band’s journey, stating, “Initially, our sound was more stripped down and heavily guitar-focused, leaning towards melodic death metal. Over time, we’ve integrated more technical, symphonic, and progressive elements, culminating in a blend that also embraces ambient influences.”
For a glimpse into The Ossuary Lens, fans can check out the music video for “Driftwood,” a track Burgess describes as integral to Allegaeon’s history and evolution.
Behind “Driftwood”
“This song holds a special place in Allegaeon history,” Burgess explains. The piece originated from bassist Booboo (Brandon Michael) during the creation of their 2019 album, Apoptosis. Initially, it was deemed too technical for the band’s style. However, as they began brainstorming for the new album, Burgess recognized its potential and worked to adapt it into a more cohesive Allegaeon sound.
“The result was fantastic,” he continues, “proving that no idea should ever be discarded, as it might find its place later on.”
The Collaboration with Dave Otero
For their seventh album, The Ossuary Lens, Allegaeon reunited with producer Dave Otero, marking their sixth collaboration. Burgess expresses gratitude for Otero’s involvement: “Working with Dave Otero at Flatline Audio has been a staple of our career for 17 years. He creates a welcoming atmosphere and brings invaluable insights into our music.”
The Ossuary Lens is set for release on April 4, and fans can pre-order it through the Metal Blade webstore. Keep up with Allegaeon on their social media platforms, including Instagram, X, and Facebook.
Greg Burgess’s Top 10 Tech-Death Albums of the 2020s
Below, Burgess shares his selections for the best tech-death albums of the current decade, showcasing the remarkable talent within the genre.
Conclusion
As the tech-death scene continues to evolve, Greg Burgess’s insights shine a light on the innovative artists shaping its future. Through Allegaeon’s upcoming album and their dedication to pushing musical boundaries, the band exemplifies the dynamic nature of this genre. Fans and newcomers alike can look forward to exploring the best that tech-death has to offer in the 2020s.
FAQs
What is tech-death music?
Technical death metal (tech-death) is a subgenre of death metal characterized by complex musical structures, intricate guitar work, and a blend of progressive and melodic elements.
Who is Greg Burgess?
Greg Burgess is the guitarist for the metal band Allegaeon, known for his technical prowess and contributions to the band’s distinctive sound.
When is Allegaeon’s new album released?
Allegaeon’s new album, The Ossuary Lens, is set to be released on April 4.
Where can I find Allegaeon’s music?
Allegaeon’s music is available on major streaming platforms, and fans can purchase their albums through the Metal Blade webstore.
