Description

Control Denied – The Fragile Art Of Existence – Compact Disc

Control Denied’s The Fragile Art of Existence, released in 1999, is a landmark album in the progressive metal genre. Control Denied was a side project of Chuck Schuldiner, the legendary guitarist and vocalist known for his pioneering work with the death metal band Death. Unlike Death, which focused on extreme metal, Control Denied allowed Schuldiner to explore more melodic and progressive musical ideas, blending elements of heavy metal, power metal, and progressive rock with the technical precision he was renowned for.

By the late 1990s, Chuck Schuldiner had already established himself as a key figure in the metal world through his work with Death, particularly through albums like Human (1991), Individual Thought Patterns (1993), and Symbolic (1995). However, Schuldiner had long been interested in creating music that went beyond the confines of death metal. Control Denied was born out of this desire to explore a different sonic landscape.

The Fragile Art of Existence was the first (and, unfortunately, only) full-length album released by Control Denied during Schuldiner’s lifetime. The project featured an impressive lineup of musicians:

Tim Aymar on vocals, known for his work with Pharaoh, brought a powerful, clean vocal style that contrasted with Schuldiner’s growls in Death.
Shannon Hamm on guitar, who had also played with Death.
Steve Di Giorgio on bass, a virtuoso musician who played with Death, Sadus, and other prominent bands.
Richard Christy on drums, another Death alumnus, who would later join Iced Earth and become known for his work in radio and comedy.

The Fragile Art of Existence is characterized by its intricate guitar work, complex song structures, and melodic sensibility. The album moves away from the brutality of death metal and embraces a more progressive approach, with influences from classic heavy metal, power metal, and even elements of progressive rock. The technicality that fans expected from Schuldiner is still present, but it is channeled into soaring melodies, harmonized guitar lines, and expansive compositions.

Lyrically, the album delves into introspective and philosophical themes, exploring concepts of existence, mortality, and the human condition. These themes are reflected in the album’s title and throughout the lyrics, which are often reflective and thought-provoking.

Key Tracks:

‘Consumed’: This opening track sets the tone for the album with its blend of melodic guitar riffs and complex arrangements. Tim Aymar’s vocals are powerful and clear, delivering Schuldiner’s introspective lyrics with emotion and intensity.

‘Breaking the Broken’: A standout track with a dynamic structure, it showcases the band’s ability to shift seamlessly between heavy, aggressive sections and more melodic, atmospheric passages. The guitar work is particularly impressive, with intricate solos and harmonized riffs.

‘Expect the Unexpected’: This track highlights the progressive elements of the album, with unusual time signatures and a focus on technical precision. The lyrics reflect themes of uncertainty and the complexities of life.

‘What If…?’: A more reflective track, “What If…?” explores the concept of missed opportunities and existential doubt. The song’s slower, more contemplative sections are balanced by bursts of technical, energetic playing.

‘The Fragile Art of Existence’: The title track is an epic, nearly 10-minute composition that encapsulates the album’s themes and musical approach. It features some of Schuldiner’s most intricate guitar work and showcases the full range of the band’s capabilities, both musically and emotionally.

The Fragile Art of Existence was well-received by fans and critics alike, who praised the album for its musicianship, depth, and the way it allowed Chuck Schuldiner to explore new musical territory. The album stands as a testament to Schuldiner’s versatility as a musician and his desire to push the boundaries of metal.

Tragically, Chuck Schuldiner passed away in 2001 after a battle with brain cancer, making The Fragile Art of Existence his final completed work. Although there were plans for a second Control Denied album, it was never finished due to his illness.

The album is now regarded as a classic in the progressive metal genre, admired not only for its technical brilliance but also for its emotional and philosophical depth. The Fragile Art of Existence continues to influence and inspire musicians across the metal spectrum, serving as a lasting legacy of Chuck Schuldiner’s immense talent and vision.

Song List
1. Consumed
2. Breaking The Broken
3. Expect The Unexpected
4. What If…?
5. When The Link Becomes Missing
6. Believe
7. Cut Down
8. Fragile Art Of Existence, The