The Demo Review:
Band Name: Behold...the Arctopus
Demo Title: Arctopocalypse Now...Warmageddon Later
Band Members: Mike Lerner - Lead Guitar, Colin Martson - Tap Guitar, Charlie Zeleny - Drums
Location: New York, NY

Rating: 4 Skulls

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    • Metal Militia's Review:
    Wow, this is intense. Uber-technical sweep picking, instrumentalthrashprogrockmetal from New York City, Behold The Arctopus are something truly unique. Not only does their stupid name set them apart, but the behemoth Warr guitar that Colin Martson plucks, sweeps, and probably sleeps with is an instrument so unwieldy and gargantuan, the fact that someone even knows how to play it is impressive. Yea, these guys can play, and play fucking well. Catchy riffs, relentless driving technicality, and stupid song names are the strength of this record. "You Will be Reincarnated as an Imperial Attack Space Turtle" - what's with the obsession with sea creatures? (I'm assuming that's what an arctopus is.) I'm guessing these guys don't take themselves all that seriously and that's what makes them stand out. Yeah, yeah, Watchtower and Dream Theater have some ridiculous talent, but who needs all that arrogance? If I'm gonna listen to musical masturbation, it better be funny.

    I haven't heard anything like these guys before: part Watchtower, part guitar hero wankery, add some Primus attitude and you've got a halfway accurate description of Arctopus. Metal nerds to the fullest extent, these guys will beat you down with endless riffs at ridiculous speeds, and you will love every second of it.

    So basically these two songs rock, and the one time I caught these guys live they rocked the house with some great jam session shenanigans. I don't know what the future for this little three piece is, because I'm sure individually they are each talented enough to get most any gig they want, but if a full length is somehow on its way, look out, cuz you ain't heard tech metal like this yet.
    4 out of 5

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