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American quartet Exist<\/a> <\/strong>have been cranking out superb progressive\/technical death metal for nearly 15 years. Rather than drastically retool their sound, they’ve consistently refined the balance of devilish aggression, jazz fusion instrumentation, and soothingly clean passages that first impressed fans on 2010’s In Mirrors<\/em> EP. Their latest LP \u2013 Hijacking the Zeitgeist<\/em>, which follows 2020’s Egoiista<\/a><\/em> \u2013 raises the bar once again. Bolstered by a significantly new lineup, the record is a typically immersive ride whose nuances, symmetry, and economical runtime will make you want to return to it as often as possible.<\/p>\n As with all of its predecessors, Hijacking the Zeitgeist<\/em> is led by guitarist\/vocalist Max Phelps<\/strong> (Cynic<\/a><\/strong>) and bassist\/vocalist Alex Weber <\/strong>(WAIT<\/a><\/strong>). Drummer Brody Smith <\/strong>(Satyr<\/a><\/strong>) returns as well; however, the LP marks the departure of longtime guitarist Matt Rossa<\/strong>. In his place is Charles Eron <\/strong>(WAIT<\/strong>), who also handles synth duties. Regarding the switch, Exist<\/strong> clarified via Facebook<\/a> in October 2023:<\/p>\n “Simply stated, Matt<\/strong> felt that his time with us had run it’s [sic<\/em>] course and \u2026 it was time for him to move on. While we’ll miss Matt’s talents, comradery and hilarious antics, we respect his decision and \u2026 will always consider him family \u2026 Charles Eron<\/strong> has played a huge role on this new album with his diverse ear, guitar playing and soundscaping talents. Charlie<\/strong> has already had a great musical relationship with two of us for years in his project WAIT<\/strong> and has been on the scene since the early days of the band, so it feels quite natural to welcome him to the fold.”<\/p>\n Indeed, Eron<\/strong> does plenty to ensure that the group sustains everything that’s worked so well for over a decade. <\/p>\n \n