Monuments

Monuments emerged from the late-2000s UK tech-metal scene, founded by guitarist John Browne following the dissolution of Fellsilent. They were instrumental in codifying the 'djent' subgenre, emphasizing syncopated, low-tuned guitar riffs and polyrhythmic structures.

The band's history is marked by several high-profile vocalist changes, with each era bringing a distinct flavor: Matt Rose's grit on 'Gnosis,' Chris Barretto's theatrical range on 'The Amanuensis' and 'Phronesis,' and Andy Cizek's versatile, modern approach on 'In Stasis.' Browne's riffing style, often involving complex thumb-slapping and percussive techniques, is a cornerstone of modern metal guitar pedagogy. Critically, they are lauded for maintaining a balance between technical proficiency and hook-driven songwriting. They occupy a central node in the progressive metalcore web, bridging the gap between the experimental math-metal of Meshuggah and the melodic accessibility of Northlane or Periphery.