Review Summary: A musical journey from start to finish, executed with prowess and raw emotion.
There are two things to expect from a new arcane roots record, huge chorus' and massive riffs. This latest release is no different, except it really is.
Melancholia Hymns makes it clear off the bat that this is a development from the bands previous work. Before me provides a typically effective introduction. But rather than the explosive math rock sound of energy is never lost from their debut album, Before Me opts for a more serene, but still emotional approach.
Lead single curtains sums up the whole record perfectly, building slowly with subtle but beautiful electronics, culminating in a gargantuan sized drop that will sound right at home on the stadium tour support slots they will surely claim following this record. Off the floor provides the albums most familiar song, abandoning the electronics completely, replacing them with punchy little number that certainly aims for the throat rather than the heart. The standout track without a doubt is Indigo, embracing everything about the bands new sound, Andrew Groves’ vocals are almost hypnotic over the six-and-a-half-minute runtime. This song is a new benchmark for Arcane roots going forward and shows the limitless potential these three gentlemen have. The album closes with the huge and extremely heartfelt Half The World. Once again Arcane Roots nails the art of closing a record, crafting a fitting end to a wonderful listening experience, this track is the grand finale that a release as cinematic as this demands, leaving the words “Be yourself, and when it’s falling down, listen to the rain” ringing in your ears for days.
Progression can be a long-time fans strongest craving, and biggest fear. If a band changes its sound, will it challenge me? Will they maintain everything you loved about them previously? Well this is exactly how you do both. Melancholia Hymns is a triumph in keeping fans on their toes, whilst scratching the same itch they’ve come to expect. This album feels like a journey from start to finish, with plenty of masterful twists and turns along the way. Album of the year contender? Absolutely.
