Intervals is a Canadian progressive metal band founded in 2011 by guitarist and primary composer Aaron Marshall. The group is known for its instrumental focus, complex compositions, and incorporation of jazz fusion elements within a metal framework.
Origins and Formation
Aaron Marshall, originally from Ottawa, Ontario, began songwriting and recording material that blended technical guitar work with progressive structures. In 2011, he released the debut EP The Space Between, marking the initial public appearance of the moniker Intervals. The project initially functioned as a solo effort, with Marshall handling the majority of instrumental duties.
Band Line‑up
While primarily a vehicle for Marshall's guitar work, Intervals has featured various supporting musicians for live performances and recordings:
- Aaron Marshall – guitars, composition (founder, 2011–present)
- Matt De Luca – bass (2012–2014)
- Brooks Wackerman – drums (studio session, 2014)
- Sam Giguère – vocals (2015–2019) – the only period the band released vocal material
- Anup Sastry – drums (2016–2020)
- Matt De Luca – bass (2020–present)
- Nick Miller – drums (2020–present)
The current line‑up emphasizes an instrumental format following the departure of vocalist Sam Giguère in 2019.
Musical Style
Intervals is categorized within the progressive metal and djent subgenres, characterized by low‑tuned, palm‑muted guitar riffs, polyrhythmic drum patterns, and melodic soloing. Their instrumental compositions often employ odd‑time signatures, jazz‑influenced chord voicings, and an emphasis on technical proficiency.
Discography
Studio Albums
- A Voice Within (2014) – Debut full‑length album, entirely instrumental, released via Proximity Music.
- The Shape of Colour (2015) – First album featuring vocalist Sam Giguère; later reissued as an instrumental version titled The Shape of Colour (Instrumental) (2016).
- Vicissitude (2021) – Return to an all‑instrumental format, released through Metal Blade Records.
EPs
- The Space Between (2011) – Early EP establishing the band's sonic direction.
Singles and Notable Tracks
- “Touch and Go” (2015) – Lead single from The Shape of Colour showcasing the band's blend of melodic hooks with heavy riffing.
- “Familiar Faces” (2021) – Representative of the band's modern instrumental approach on Vicissitude.
Label Affiliations
Intervals has released material through several independent labels, including Proximity Music, Basick Records, and Metal Blade Records. Their releases are distributed digitally and on physical formats such as CD and vinyl.
Reception and Influence
Critical reception has generally highlighted Marshall’s technical guitar work and the band’s ability to fuse progressive metal with melodic sensibilities. Vicissitude received positive reviews for its intricate compositions and polished production. Intervals is frequently cited among contemporary instrumental progressive metal acts and has contributed to the broader djent movement.
Touring History
The band has performed extensively in North America and Europe, sharing stages with acts such as Plini, Animals as Leaders, and Intervals. Live performances typically feature a trio or quartet configuration, emphasizing guitar, bass, and drums.
Recent Activity
As of 2023, Intervals continues to write and record new material, with Aaron Marshall indicating plans for future releases and tours. No further lineup changes have been publicly announced.
