230503

There's been a bit of a buzz about this Australian band of late with the release of their first studio album even if it was back in 2009. I can definitely understand the appeal after spending a few days listening to it. The big positive for me is the atmosphere that these guys develope throughout. They have a good sound overall as well although the one negative for me are the vocals.The vocals and their sound I would describe as modern.The vocalist almost seems like he's shouting the lyrics at times like the vocalist for THE DEAR HUNTER or MUSE does. And for most this will be a good thing but not for me. By the way this is an over 69 minute concept album.

"The Deepest Wound" opens with a phone ringing as atmosphere rolls in.Vocals and a full sound before a minute. I like the guitar solo after 3 minutes. "Leaving Here Tonight" features strummed guitar as reserved vocals join in. A more powerful sound after 2 minutes. Atmosphere ends it. "Breaking Water" opens with water sounds and piano as fragile vocals join in. Sampled mellotron after a minute comes and goes. Atmosphere after 3 minutes to end it. "Waterfall" is a relaxing tune with vocals. Strings late. "Anonymity" has a good beat with bass and strange sounds. It settles before 3 minutes with mellotron and spoken words. "The Bond Of Mutual Distrust" kicks in quickly with vocals. Not a fan of this one.The guitar is crying out 5 minutes in. Atmosphere after 9 minutes to end it.

"The Doctor" is drum led as vocals join in this uptempo track. Not a fan. "Flying / Falling" opens with piano and synths as it builds. "The Collapse" has some organ in it but it's the bass and vocals that stand out early. Guitar 2 1/2 minutes in. Strings and piano 5 minutes in. Some kiiller guitar after 10 1/2 minutes. Atmosphere ends it. "Disinfected And Abused" is powerful early but then it settles with vocals 1 1/2 minutes in. Contrasts continue. Mellotron and sax before 3 1/2 minutes. It kicks back in at 6 minutes .It settles 10 1/2 minutes in with vocals, bass and atmosphere. Spoken words before 12 minutes as the song continues to play out.

A good album no doubt and one where they really try to draw you into the concept.