Messenger "Threnodies" (2016)

Back in 2014 I found myself sitting in a the pews of a quaint chapel in London, humbled by this band who were opening for Devin Townsend performing his "Casualties Of Cool" record. After the show I picked up the bands debut "Illusory Blues" which won me over swiftly, perhaps being the most impressive Progressive Rock record Ive heard in recent memory and with time that impression only strengthened. Messenger have echos of the greats while standing on their own two feet and subsequently had me hyped for this release which promised more of the same, another seven tracks spanning 46 minutes it continues where its predecessor left off.

Opening with "Calyx" the group set the precedent for a collection of songs that seem so uninhibited by structure and form with music that unfold at its own leisure, moving through the motions with no urgency, creating an indulgence that starts with a calm and tranquil motif that's got a surge of unrest beneath it. With a calm before the storm a lone electronic lead brings us into a shift in momentum that leads to a grand climatic guitar riff that's got glory in its soul. The following "Oracles Of War" thickens the atmosphere with a galloping intensity and the guitars and drums thunder forward with classic prog organs laying the density. The momentum slowly unwinds into a lush calm of serene acoustics soaking in a soft ambience and light pianos accenting the soft, dreamy vocals of singer Lowe who shines bright in every moment of this record and takes it to some sublime peaks with his grounded harmony. For all of its lush tranquility, every moment flirts with a darkness that's forever fleeting, never surfacing and in its immediacy can sound rather sorrowful and sombre. As the songs flow and progress the whole affair becomes rather entrancing in an effortless manor that makes enjoying a breeze but analyzing becomes allusive as no part of its charm lies on one riff, melody or hook but the overall journey these songs draw you into. This is best heard in its strongest melodies which can often drop in from the quieter region of the sound, rather than being immediate and upfront.

"Threnodies" is another self realized and inspired creation that is perhaps a little bolder and more adventurous than its former. Again its persuasive with its atmosphere and draws you in closer when your not looking, which is part of what makes writing about it so hard. Putting music into words is a challenge but you can never do that music justice, and in times like this you feel as if you cant ever come close. The production is sublime, the instruments are rocking and vivid. Lowe's vocals are enticing, reminding me slightly at times of Thom Yorke, and the drums where particularly more expansive this time around. I adore this record, cannot wait to catch them again on the road and I'm sure this one will not tire like that last has yet too.

Favorite Track: Calyx, Balearic Blue, Pareidolia, Crown Of Ashes
Rating: 8/10

My Top 10 Albums Of 2014

The end of the year is upon us, and now its time to write about my 10 favorite albums of 2014. Most of them have been reviewed on the blog which has only been going a few months. Writing about music has given me tremendous focus when it comes to appreciating music. I am now much more organized with my listening habits, I only write about records after I feel an understanding and connection to that without the blog wouldn't have been the same in the past. I'm thankful for this blog and everyones support by reading the articles, Its improved my musical experience greatly and this article will cover my thoughts of each record in brief.

(10) Panopticon "Roads To The North" Link

Delightfully different approach to Black Metal, Kentucky folk influences, an appreciation of heritage and culture made this a colorful and palleted record that is enjoyable on every listen.

(9) Yagya "Sleepygirl" Link

 

Not an especially distinguished or grabbing record, this was just simply what I wanted from this artist, some chilled out super mellow dreamy electronics.

(8) Earth "Primitive And Deadly" Link

A masterful record that saw long running band Earth find their inspiration and direct it into a mature and well developed record that brought vocal elements into their usually instrumental sound. An unexpected and welcome suprise.

(7) Erang "We Are The Past" Link

Erang has pumped out a lot of music in a short amount of time and each record brings a variety of interesting and indulgent music, but unexpectedly this one really stepped up the game with some of his most inspired and captivating music yet. Makes me excited for the future of this project.

(6) Wolves In The Throne Room "Celestite"

Stripping out core elements of their sound and focusing on the abstract synthesizer sounds, the group made a remarkable record that goes on a vivid and mysterious journey through space and time with and eerie and cold undertone. Gripping soundscapes

 (5) Behemoth "The Satanist"

Stunningly dark, evil and well composed. What could of been another run of the mill album for their 10th effort turned out to be focused and ambitious record that despite sitting in a comfort zone, turned out to be monumentally engrossing and heavy.

(4) The Underachievers "Cellar Door - Terminus Ut Exordium" Link

A pleasant surprise to find a Hip Hop record in the modern era I could get into. Very much enjoyed the atmosphere of this record which borders some dark moods at time. Great beats and flows outside of my comfort zone made this an expansive record for my taste.

(3) Saor "Aura" Link

A brilliant record that appreciates Black Metals melodic side, bringing together the abrasive aesthetics with culturally inspired melodies and instrumentation. A pleasure for the ears.

(2) Messenger "Illusory Blues" Link

A Progressive Rock record that draws inspiration from many of the greats while creating its own identity. This record is mature for a debut and paves the way to a bright future for this creative band.

(1) First Aid Kit "Stay Gold" Link

Picking my favorite was as easy as it gets. Since I first heard this record Ive found myself more and more engrossed by these gorgeous songs that are charming and relate-able with down to earth, uplifting and reflectional lyrics that are driven home by the pairs beautiful voices, which put me in a good mood every time I hear them. Simply can't stop listening to this one.

Messenger "Illusory Blues" (2014)

I had the pleasure of catching this new emerging band at the union chapel in London supporting Casualties Of Cool. The setting was quite beautiful sitting in the pews of the communal church, the atmosphere in there was rich and absorbing and I found myself captivated by the harmonious aura their performance brought fourth. It didn't take me long to realize this was something special. Immediately after the show was over i headed to the merchandise stall to buy myself a copy of their album. Since then its been stuck in my CD player, and in my mind.

Messenger, and this album, have come out of nowhere to deliver us some exceptional Progressive music thats reminiscent of the great acts, from Floyd to Opeth, Porcupine to Genesis, there are influences to be felt in many moments, but through the similarities, Messenger really hold there own here. On this record they drift through many different musical passages with a strong melodic hold accompanied by some grandiose, honest vocal leads that resonate through the songs. Theres everything from dreamy, ambient passages, to heavy Zeppelin-esque riffs and its all beautifully bound together through some great musicianship, song structure and a great sense of melodic progression.

The icing's on the cake here. This album offers a lot to take in for the listener, and after many spins i am still absorbing much of the layered instrumentation. The recording here is befitting with no noticeable issues, however there are a few distortions i suspect where for effect in the heavier, riff oriented moments. This album is exceptional, i am liking it more with every listen and very glad i had the pleasure of seeing them live.

Favorite Tracks: The Return, Midnight, Somniloquist

Rating: 9/10