England's underground music scene has birthed yet another gem, and it's time to shine a light on the heavy-hitting band, Desert Storm. With nearly two decades of musical evolution, this Oxford-based group has crafted a unique sound that blends various subgenres of rock, creating a sonic storm that's both captivating and intense.
A Journey Through Sound
Desert Storm's musical trajectory is a fascinating one. Starting from their blues-infused stoner rock origins, they've ventured into the realms of sludge, doom, and psychedelic rock, creating a diverse and experimental discography. Their latest album, 'Buried Under the Weight of Reason,' showcases a band that has found its sweet spot, delivering a powerful and cohesive blend of their diverse influences.
The album opens with a punch, as 'Newfound Respect' introduces a heavier and more dynamic sound. The guitars are thicker and more menacing, incorporating elements from various metal subgenres. Imagine a fusion of Boss Keloid's phrasing, Baroness's atmospheric textures, and the occasional djent-like chug—a recipe for an epic auditory experience. This new direction is a bold statement, marking a significant evolution from their earlier works like 'Forked Tongues' and 'Horizontal Life'.
Groove and Dynamics
One of the standout aspects of this album is Desert Storm's masterful handling of grooves. They understand the art of building tension and releasing it with explosive riffs. The band showcases their maturity by allowing each hook to breathe, avoiding the temptation to overcomplicate their compositions. This approach is evident in tracks like 'Woodsman' and 'Shamanic Echoes,' where minimalist phrasing creates a captivating and nuanced atmosphere.
The dynamics are further enhanced by the interplay between the instruments. Elliot Cole's drumming provides a thunderous backdrop, while new bassist Andrew Keyzor adds depth and groove. Together, they create a rhythmic foundation that is both heavy and captivating, ensuring every head in the audience moves in unison.
Vocal Evolution
Matthew Ryan's vocals have been a topic of discussion among fans. On this album, Ryan delivers a grizzled and reliable performance, providing a solid foundation for the band's sound. While his vocals may not steal the spotlight, they complement the music effectively. However, there are moments where the vocals could have been more adventurous, especially on tracks like 'Woodsman' and 'Dripback', where the band's musical experimentation outshines the vocal delivery.
Production and Songwriting
The production on 'Buried Under the Weight of Reason' is generally solid, but it's not without its flaws. The mix, at times, buries some of the finer details, which is a shame considering the intricate musical arrangements. Additionally, the band's focus on riff-heavy songwriting occasionally leads to songs feeling slightly overextended. The interlude 'Carry the Weight' is a prime example of a track that adds little to the overall flow of the album.
Despite these minor criticisms, the songwriting on this record is infectious. The band's ability to blend technical complexity with raw energy is commendable, and it's this balance that makes the album so enjoyable. The standout track, 'Twelve Seasons,' is a perfect example of their refined songwriting, showcasing both their technical prowess and their commitment to extracting every ounce of emotion from a groove.
Conclusion: A Storm Worth Experiencing
In 'Buried Under the Weight of Reason,' Desert Storm has crafted an album that is both a celebration of their musical journey and a testament to their artistic growth. While it may not be a perfect record, it is undoubtedly their most accomplished work to date. The band's confidence in their sound and their ability to create irresistible grooves make this album a must-listen for fans of heavy music. What makes this album particularly interesting is its ability to balance sheer sonic power with moments of nuanced musicality, creating a listening experience that is both thrilling and engaging.
