Review Summary: Post-metal with marine themes... What can go wrong?
Right from the hills of Kanton Bern, Switzerland, Fog Warning is the latest project formed by multi-instrumentalist and producer Tim Nyss, and from the US, Alex Newton (keyboard, guitar and vocals), along with Jess Mazzola on vocals.
The Fog Warning refers to a painting by Winslow Homer, depicting a lone fisherman on a small boat looking back at clouds of fog. According to Wikipedia, The Boston Fine Art Museum describes the painting as having a narrative, “though its tale is disturbing rather than charming. As indicated by the halibut in his dory, the fisherman in this picture has been successful. But the hardest task of the day, the return to the main ship, is still ahead of him”.
The band’s debut studio album, Perils Below, also follows this depiction in its sound; a very melodic backdrop and atmospheric venture overall, lead by heavy guitar riffs and guttural vocals. There’s a clear intent on making this sound nautical and celebratory at the same time. The lead single, “Cachalot”, is clearly a highlight with an instantly memorable guitar riff accompanied by sailor-like chanting in the chorus section. Other moments in the album are more focused on melody such as “These Edible Bones”, featuring a contrast of soft croons and clean vocals along with the harsher raspy voice. The variety in the vocal department keeps the audience engaged and makes this an interesting listen right off the bat.
The synth work is also worth mentioning, as “Become the Fog” takes the listener through an eerie/dark venture. The juxtaposition of the, sort of, classical guitar licks and the epic synth lines make this song another instant favorite of mine. The album fittingly closes with “Constellations”, with a nice bass riff accompanying nice melodic guitars and exploding into a heavy groove with raspy vocals portraying the seafarer lost at sea.
Post-metal with marine themes clearly paying homage to landmarks such as Oceanic or Fluxion, while putting their own twist and not shying away from black/doom metal influences. What can go wrong? Well, with enough talent and passion Fog Warning brings their well earned take on the genre and hopefully they’ll have more on their pocket.
