Search - Isis :: Wavering Radiant

Wow!

Øystein Bye | Norway | 12/10/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is not background music. This is music to listen to. If you invest som time, you will be rewarded. A combination of hardcore and prog rock. Isis plows new ground and take you on a journey you have never been on before. Simply fantastic."

Hand of the Host, extended out...

Carrion Kind | Massachusetts | 01/01/2010

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Another potent slab of crushing "post ambient metal" from Aaron Turner and co. I've seen this band erroneously labeled as "Progressive" or "Rock" which can throw potential fans off who come here expecting to hear music in the same vein as Cynic, Dream Theater or perhaps something a little more straightforward and light. This is cerebral, haunting and addictive music of a different progressive variety. Walls of monolithic guitars weave themselves in and out of eerie bass notes which sound off in the darkness while the drums keep the heart of this beast alive and moving. The pace is relatively slow but consistent, never boring or plodding aimlessly. Keyboards/sound samples give the album extra depth and mystery with it's interesting interludes and ambient passages which sometimes make themselves known (Check out the title track "Wavering Radiant") or do their work within the songs in a subtle and almost invisible way (see "Hand of the Host") Aaron Turner's voice, be it a raging howl, restrained whisper or his ever evolving cleanly sung passages give this monster the ability of speech and communication. Each song being given equal treatment with his varying vocal style. No flash, no showing off, just simply done (but not simple) and effectively straight forward. Hard to ignore, easy to be impressed by, "Wavering Radiant" is an astounding release of slow moving molten destruction.

Recommended for fans of Godflesh/Jesu, Torche, Rosetta, etc."

Arguably Their Best Yet

The Expanse | Atlanta, GA | 01/17/2010

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I like to refer to Isis as the Sigur Ros of metal...and that is certainly what they have become for me. This newest record finds them continuing to refine their art...vocalist Aaron Turner uses more melody (stays on pitch much better as well, a personal annoyance on their earlier efforts). And yet they haven't lost any of the slow-burning crunch they've always been so good at. Even though it can function well as background music because of how slow most of the songs develop, I often find myself totally seduced and engrossed. One of my favorite bands right now. (track to sample: "20 Minutes / 40 Years")"