Based on their 2025 album Neurogenesis, the Canadian instrumental prog metal band Phaeton is a force of cosmic chaos and meticulous craft. Their third full length release is a tightly wound, mind expanding journey that proves music doesn't need a voice to tell a compelling story.

          Phaeton, formed in Kimberley, British Columbia, consists of Kevin Thiessen (guitars, keyboards), Daniel Airth (guitars), Ferdy Belland (bass), and Colin Righton (drums). Neurogenesis is a seven track album that marks a bold evolution, offering a more concise approach without sacrificing any of the band's signature imagination. Thematically, it draws inspiration from the technological singularity—the convergence of human consciousness with machine intelligence—serving as both a cool warning and a sober observation of the future.

       The album immediately pulls you into its world. The opening track,  Tethys Rising,  draws you in with an easy lead in before hitting you with harmonized guitar melodies that are both grim and melodic. From there, the band weaves a wordless narrative through shifting time signatures and tectonic riffage.

Tracks like the slower, darker  Discontinuum  showcase the band's ability to create a solemn, storytelling atmosphere where the animated bass and energetic drums drive the emotion. The band's technical prowess is on full display in Arachnid, a track that creeps and crawls with precision, weaving a web of menace and melodic finesse. A major highlight is Isochron,  which features an unmistakable keyboard solo from prog legend Derek Sherinian, adding a powerful swagger and technical dexterity to the album.

      Neurogenesis is a crushing and cerebral listen from a band that has sharpened its sound to a fine point. Phaeton confidently bridges the gap between melody and pure, unadulterated musicianship. They fuse the ferocious compositions of modern metal with the ambitious spirit of classic prog rock, creating a unique and thrilling sound that stands alone.

Neurogenesis is available on digital platforms and Bandcamp (FWI Best way to support the artist).

-Alternative Justin