Forerunner (album)

Forerunner is a concept album by the American progressive metal band Vektor, released in 2012. It is the band's second full-length studio album, following their debut, Black Future (2009).

The album continues Vektor's thrash metal-infused progressive style, incorporating complex song structures, dissonant harmonies, and science fiction-themed lyrical content. Forerunner explores themes of technological advancement, societal decay, and the potential consequences of humanity's pursuit of progress. The album's narrative follows a fictional interstellar journey and depicts a technologically advanced civilization on the brink of collapse.

Critical reception of Forerunner was generally positive, with reviewers praising the album's technical proficiency, ambitious scope, and thought-provoking themes. It is often considered a landmark release within the progressive metal and thrash metal genres. Key characteristics include David DiSanto's unique, high-pitched vocals and the intricate guitar work of DiSanto and Erik Nelson. The album showcases Vektor's signature blend of aggression and sophistication, establishing them as a prominent force in modern progressive metal.

The tracklist includes songs such as "Cosmic Cortex," "Echoless Chamber," and the title track, "Forerunner." The album was released on Earache Records.