13 BLUES FOR THIRTEEN MOONS

This should be the album that finally does it. 13 Blues for Thirteen Moons should finally sever the link in audiences minds between ASMZ and GY!BE. Here we hear before our ears a band reaching maturity, no longer to be regarded as a spin-off or some poor man's Godspeed.

After some short tracks of feedback to introduce the album, 1,000,000 Died to Make This Sound begins with some typical post-rock playing and typical ASMZ chanting, then the track and the album as a whole explodes revealing something different about this record. This thing is heavy. Heavy Apocalyptica style cello lines, distorted, muddy, riffing guitars, and tons of punkish energy. This may be the most alive and biting post-rock album you hear. ASMZ sounds more akin to a rock band with an orchestra than a GY!BE side project.

The high musicianship, great writing, etc things we expect from the band are present, but with a newer sound and higher energy. The differentiate between tracks really gets me excited about the album. People often complain about post-rock having songs that blend together, certainly not an issue here. All songs have their own sound and identity, but as a testament to the bands talent all fit the feel of the album. Additionally, Efrim's vocals really hit a high point here. Those who fail to grasp his singing will probably be upset as they are featured here more prominently than any previous release, but the album could hardly work without them. His voice: abrasive, frail, and haunting all at the same time which pierces right through the music and touches you.

Really not many complaints about this outing. The title track drags on at some points but still remains very listenable. Good introduction and good pick-up for fans.