Artist Detailed Info: Asava

ASAVA is an emerging alt-metal/progressive metal band from Canton, Ohio, that has been steadily building momentum with a cinematic, emotionally charged sound.

Fronted by the multi-talented Liam Brocious (vocals, guitar, director, and editor), the current lineup includes bassist Greg Cochran, drummer Spencer Cindia, and guitarists Zach Rusher and Garrett Gump. The band has roots going back nearly a decade as childhood friends, with earlier releases in a more straightforward alternative rock vein (including a 2020 debut and singles like the personal, therapeutic "25" in 2022). They truly broke through with their 2025 full-length Mantras, supported by an ambitious visual companion series called How Long Is Forever? — a self-produced crime-noir style project directed by Brocious.

Sound and Style

ASAVA blends modern atmospheric metal with progressive structures, shimmering melodies, heavy riffs, and dynamic contrasts. Think brooding, cinematic builds that explode into cathartic heaviness, with strong emotional vocals that range from vulnerable cleans to intense delivery. Critics and fans frequently compare them to Sleep Token and Bad Omens for the dark, ominous beauty and immersive storytelling, while some hear echoes of Deftones, Fair to Midland, or even progressive rock elements.

Tracks like "Acceptance," "Rue," "Confidence," and newer singles such as "Leigh" and "Valhalla" showcase intricate compositions, shifting moods, and a mix of dreamy tenderness with brutal intensity. The production often feels wide-screen and ambitious, matching their visual work.
Strengths

Cinematic Vision: The integration of music with high-quality video storytelling (Brocious handles much of the directing/editing) sets them apart. It's not just songs—it's a multimedia experience.

Emotional Depth: Lyrics tackle personal struggles, self-acceptance, loss, and resilience, giving the music genuine weight.

Songcraft: Strong hooks, dynamic shifts, and a good balance between heaviness and melody make Mantras a compelling debut that many listeners describe as addictive and polished.

Potential Drawbacks

As a newer project pushing into the progressive/alt-metal space, some listeners note occasional production choices that feel uneven or influences that lean heavily on current scene leaders like Sleep Token. A few tracks can feel jagged or experimental in a way that might not click on first listen (e.g., the more experimental "Valhalla").
Overall Verdict

ASAVA is a promising rising force in modern metal. With Mantras (and the upcoming Mahjong as its companion), they deliver heartfelt, atmospheric progressive-tinged alt-metal that rewards repeated listens. If you enjoy bands that combine heavy riffs, emotional vulnerability, and ambitious visuals, this is a band worth checking out—they have the potential to follow the trajectory of Sleep Token or Bad Omens into bigger stages.

Recommended starting points: "Acceptance," "Rue," or the full Mantras album. Keep an eye on them; they're building something special.

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