Dvne – Voidkind (2024)
Scotland’s burgeoning progressive post-metallers hit a career high with their latest release.
The band’s previous albums, their debut Asheran and sophomore album Etemen Ænka, have been excellent markers in the sand for Voidkind. The raw talent was evident if unrefined on their debut and Etemen Ænka showcased a more expansive approach to songwriting and musicality which garnered the band more, deserved, attention.
With Voidkind, the band opted for a more compact, direct approach compared to its predecessors. And the opening track, “Summa Blasphemia,” illustrates this shift perfectly with a fast-paced mix of soaring vocals and hard, intricate riffing.
This is the sound now of a band that is utterly in control of their talents and clear in their vision for what they want. The tracks have become simplified in sound with less keyboard prominence.
Tracks like “Sarmatae” and “Abode of the Perfect Soul” are supreme examples of how their confidence in the writing of their songs has developed. The track “Eleonora” is an epic that builds throughout the track before offering a stunning resolution.
Overall this album builds on previous efforts and shows the sound a band coming into their own as a musical force.
Donnie’s Rating = 9/10
Anciients – Beyond The Reach Of The Sun (2024)
Vancover’s finest exponents of progressive heavy metal hit the jackpot with their latest album.
Opening track “Forbidden Sanctuary” is a perfect example of what this band is all about. Intricate driving riffs with cascading soundscapes and beautiful melody lines. What’s not to like?
Since their debut album over a decade ago the band have continued to broaden their musical horizons and expand their sound to where they are today. Tracks like “Melt the Crown” and “In the Absence of Wisdom” are highlights on an album stacked with killer progressive tracks.
There are shades of the mighty Mastodon and Opeth in their sound and compositions, which is definitely no bad thing. Drawing inspirations from those masters of modern metal without copying is a skill in itself.
Beyond The Reach Of The Sun is undoubtedly one of the best albums of 2024. Kudos also to the stunning album artwork from Adam Burke.
I strongly advise any reader to give this album a listen.
Donnie’s Rating = 10/10
