The Pitch: Consisting of members from across Europe, Archivist returns with the 3rd chapter of their progressive, post-metal/black sci fi saga. FFO: Underling, Numenorean, So Hideous
What I Like: You may or may not be familiar with Archivist from our recent video list of post-black bands, but if not, now is the perfect time to remedy your mistake. Triumvirate is the third chapter chronicling the tribulations of the last survivor of Earth who has stowed away on an escape pod. This somewhat Coheed-reminiscent storyline broke onto the scene in a big way with the band's powerful self-titled debut, and continued forwards in 2017 with A.I. Admittedly, I was a little let down by the latter given the high bar the band set for themselves at the get-go, but I am happy to report that Triumvirate feels likes a return to form.
Once more, we are treated to a broad variety of sounds, all arranged into a thrillingly cohesive melodrama. Those who enjoyed the most recent outing from Numenorean will likely hear post-black parallels in Archivist's sound, but also everything from post-hardcore to progressive. "Deus Ex Machina" kicks things off on a truly epic note with a composition that is as massive as it is emotionally gripping. Above all else, I love music that makes you feel, and it's difficult not to stir personal connections to sorrow, grief, and hope when listening to this album. "Iteration three: Anopheli" is another clear standout with its impressive dynamics, ranging from the fiery blackened intro to a very proggy, effects-laden interlude.
Critiques: This album has layers that I still need to peel away with further listens, but as of now there are a few moments that slow the momentum for me. It's the extra battle that concept albums have to overcome in balancing well-paced narrative storytelling with maintaining consistently enjoyable songs without any filler.
The Verdict: It's still too early for me to compare Trumvirate to my first love, Archivist, but it is a clear and marked improvement from A.I. Archivist continue to deliver powerful music that is both musically gratifying and, perhaps more importantly, affectively potent. Once again, the band has made their release available at the price of your choosing. Well worth throwing some money their way.
Flight's Fav's: Deus Ex Machina, Iteration One: Messianic Synthetic, Iteration three: Anopheli
- Review by FlightOfIcarus
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