It is nearly impossible to dissect an artist like Benea Reach into something fit to print. The band definitely can be characterized as metal, but, melding equal parts Tool, Mastodon and Kylesa, Monument Bineothan is a sonic venture into undiscovered territory.

In nature, a forest fire is at first a devastating disaster destroying everything in its path. But afterward, newer, healthier life is born, essential to nature's survival. The same circumstances are happening in extreme music now. Over the course of the last few years, heavy music is slowly making its way out of the doldrums of metalcore and gradually more experimental bands are emerging to inject new life into the genre. Bands such as Kylesa, The Esoteric, The_Network and Yakuza may never gain a high level of popularity but will be key figures in the evolution of extreme music, broadening the horizons of what bands are allowed to do.

Add the Norwegian avant-garde/hardcore act Benea Reach to this list of up-and-coming bands, though their sound is not totally like those just mentioned. Featuring former Extol guitarist Crister Espevoll, Benea Reach's post-hardcore riffs and doom-laden atmosphere combine in an apocalyptic sound. It is at times harsh, while at others somewhat soothing. Growled lyrics sung in a lower monotone are similar to those of the mentioned bands. Some Satyricon and black metal influence can be heard, as well, in the tortured vocal department. The album is best represented on standouts such as the hardcore/black metal fusion of “Inheritor” and the heavy, plodding “Pandemonium.” “Conflux” is just plain out-there, an acoustic piece with a strange woman narrator. “Venerate” clocks in at over 12 minutes and ends with a lengthy score, leading into more of the same on the album closer, “Drapery.” The album is an overload of drudging guitars and dissonant sound.

Benea Reach sets no boundaries as to what they will do on this album. But there are a few issues. The vocals could use some variation and would benefit from more memorable lyrics such as in “Pandemonium.” Also, experimentation aside, by the time the listener has drudged their way through 75 percent of the album, they're all but drudged out. These are minor complaints for an innovative and unusual band. Bands like this are leading us into new ground, though an open mind is required.