Back with a new vocalist and slightly altered direction 'Northlane' have released their most refined mature album to date. With a stronger focus on atmosphere and less on cliche metalcore elements these Aussies have crafted an album of songs that compliment each member's individual strengths, especially new frontman Marcus Bridge. His clean vocals are very powerful and far superior to previous vocalist Adrian Fitipaldes and he uses them far more frequently and confidently. Although his screaming ability is not up to par it doesn't hinder this album at all.
The guitarists seem to have taken a simpler approach looking for those notes that compliment and create atmosphere like a post-metal bad instead of going the hardcore or metalcore route and focusing on simple riffs and chugging. I know what you're thinking: wait this doesn't sound very heavy at all. This is Northlane we're talking about right? And the answer is yes and no. There are a few heavier moments on "Node", such as the track "Ra" which would sound right at home on "Singularity," but the focus is on the singing and the lush soundscapes which have always been a part of Northlane but just far more subtle in the past. Now its taken the front seat and drives the band/album.
Anybody who felt Northlane should tone down their metalcore elements in the past will be very pleased with this album. Those that came in looking for "Singularity" pt.2 aren't gonna have a good time, you're gonna have to find something else here to enjoy. I personally didn't enjoy the singles too much but after hearing them as a part of "Node" it really completes the puzzle and I'm a little surprised I'm enjoying this as much as I do but that must have been because of my low expectations coming in. This is an album for fans of progressive metalcore and one of the better ones released in recent times, fans of the genre won't be disappointed.
The guitarists seem to have taken a simpler approach looking for those notes that compliment and create atmosphere like a post-metal bad instead of going the hardcore or metalcore route and focusing on simple riffs and chugging. I know what you're thinking: wait this doesn't sound very heavy at all. This is Northlane we're talking about right? And the answer is yes and no. There are a few heavier moments on "Node", such as the track "Ra" which would sound right at home on "Singularity," but the focus is on the singing and the lush soundscapes which have always been a part of Northlane but just far more subtle in the past. Now its taken the front seat and drives the band/album.
Anybody who felt Northlane should tone down their metalcore elements in the past will be very pleased with this album. Those that came in looking for "Singularity" pt.2 aren't gonna have a good time, you're gonna have to find something else here to enjoy. I personally didn't enjoy the singles too much but after hearing them as a part of "Node" it really completes the puzzle and I'm a little surprised I'm enjoying this as much as I do but that must have been because of my low expectations coming in. This is an album for fans of progressive metalcore and one of the better ones released in recent times, fans of the genre won't be disappointed.