WEATHER SYSTEMS

Anathema

Experimental/Post Metal

4.04 | 964 ratings

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Anathema is a band that I have dabbled with over the years, but only since the release of "We're Here Because We're Here" have I properly listened to and explored this band.

So now we have the follow up "Weather Systems" this is an album that very much picks up where WHBWH left off. A post rock album that is full of sumptuous orchestration, depth of emotion, and some very nice production.

Anathema are very much part of the modern prog revival that's happening at the moment, but this is not prog in the traditional sense. There's not much in the way of odd time signatures, virtuoso performances or stark contrasts in mood and feel. In fact quite the opposite, this album takes it right back to just one idea, that's nurtured, grown, and given space to breathe. This is Anathema's strength as a band, they are brave enough to take that one idea and run with it. The result is engaging, uplifting and full of emotion; something I feel can be lost when (prog bands in particular) focus on the technicality side of things.

The two major highlights of this album for me are "Untouchable Pt 1 "and "The Beginning and the End". "Untouchable Pt 1" is very much in the same vein as "Thin Air" from WHBWH, a single phrase repeated and built up, until bam! In comes the distorted guitars and you're swimming in a sea of glorious post rock. In my opinion this is the perfect way to open this album.

"The Beginning and the End" is a melancholic piano driven track; it could be classed as the single from the album. It's short, It's catchy, and features a fine solo from guitarist Danny Cavanagh.

My least favourite track is "Sunlight", while still completely fitting with the rest of the album; to me it just lacks that special buzz the other tracks have. I found I got a bit bored towards the end of it.

In summary, Anathema serves up a fine slice of modern day post rock prog in "Weather Systems". If emotion, soaring guitars, and massively long build ups are your thing, you won't find a better album than this to quench your thirst.

Moshimword | 4/5 | 2012-7-5

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