Review Summary: Eagle Twin create a drone that is both chaotic and complex.
Eagle Twin are Gentry Densley (vocals/guitar) and Tyler Smith (drums). Those familiar with Mr. Densley's other band, Iceburn, know of the man's skillful guitar playing. He also collaborated with Greg Anderson (Sunn O)))) in Ascend who unleashed the massive "Ample Fire Within" last year. If you had to compare Eagle Twin to either one of Gentry's other projects, sonically it is much closer to Ascend's droning doom. However, Iceburn's prog-influenced math-rock also rears it's ugly head to create a truly unique sound. Gentry balances his sloooooow, funereal chords with some very interesting fretboard wizardry that sounds like Robert Fripp playing Sunn O))). Easy to overlook is the performance put in by drummer Tyler Smith. He beats the hell out of his kit and boy is it impressive. The only comparison I could come up with is Dale Crover, but he really has a style all his own. This album certainly isn't for everyone. Those who like their extreme metal fast and spastic, look elsewhere. Songs range in length from 6 minutes to 15 minutes. Another complaint bound to come up are Gentry's vocals. He basically throat-sings which certainly are original, but most likely will be the make-or-break point of this album. However if you were ever fascinated with Sunn O)))'s concept of drone, but found it a little too avant-garde, then you should dig this. It certainly isn't mainstream, in fact, it's far from it. Densley's guitar seems to be so loud at times, that it sounds as if there are several instruments playing along. Add to that Smith's pummeling drums and you get true musical chaos. If you listen closely, there are subtle nuances that separate this album from all the other drone and doom acts. Ultimately, Eagle Twin achieves a goal that no other drone/doom band has ever accomplished: Making all the doom and gloom listenable for the masses.
