Rising pheonix-like from the ashes of hardworking UK industrial metal outfit Interlock, frontman Hal Sinden and drummer Joe Butterworth have finally unleashed the long-awaited debut release of Talanas. Eschewing the dancefloor stomp of their former outfit, the core duo (aided in no small part by bassist Mark Duffy, fretboard pyromaniac Ewan Parry and now departed keyboardist Josiah Lutton) have instead embraced a far darker, progressive and generally more extreme approach to metal on this three track CD.
They’ve taken their time with this release for sure but the spacious, powerful production and bewitchingly labyrinthine song structures are a testament to their patience. Switching from Messugah-esque ‘lurch ‘n’ groove’ riffs to reflective ambience and brutal blasting with almost contemptuous ease, it’s clear that Sinden et al have been rehearsing. Hard. Opener ‘Diaphora’ is a true statement of intent, all cavernous vocal roars and juddering riffs draped in Parry’s modal lead stylings before moving into a clean refrain that acts as a perfect counterbalance to the aggression.
‘Pray Speed the Fever’ continues in a similar vein, seething with considered technicality whilst taking great care to maintain the balance in dynamics before Talanas close the EP with the lush soundscapes of ‘Aorta’. At eight minutes or so in length, the slow-burn, evolving textures, bring to mind the works of Devin Townsend at his most pastoral. At this stage of the band’s development, the influences are still quite clear – the Gojira vibe is most prominent and the proggier side of fellow brits Akercocke certainly rears it’s head on occasion. The clean moments also have a hefty dose of Opeth about them - perhaps more to do with Sinden’s remarkable vocal similarities to Mikael Akerfelft than anything else. Given this, it is a relatively unique mix and Talanas have managed to achieve the remarkable feat of synthesizing these influences into a coherent soundscape that is very much recognizable as their own. An assured, professional and characterful debut that points to potential greatness in the not-too-distant future.
http://www.myspace.com/talanas
