Descent by The Depth Beneath Us
Atmosphere and layering are the cornerstone of Pennsylvania's post-rock maximalists The Depth Beneath Us. Particularly on their forthcoming sophomore album Descent, the quintet finds captivating new ways to build symphonic guitar layers, vaguely reminiscent of how U2’s Joshua Tree created wide open, soaring sonic spaces. But the band also deftly combines this with post-metal structures, progressive melodies and emotive songwriting to make sweeping songs that build truly orchestral passages and crescendos. Add to that Battles' dissection of electronic music, Russian Circles' dramatic metallic guitars, and punchy rhythms, and one can get a sense of this epic masterwork.
Descent is their new ten-song, 55-minute full length. From the pummeling opening riffs of “Trust Thermocline” to the time-twisting rhythms of the title track, it's clear that their increased ambition has paid dividends without compromising an ability to craft intricate and memorable songs.
The band reveals that the new sequence of material was carefully designed to illustrate a journey through the universal experience of conflict in its many forms. “Everywhere you look, there is a nearly unprecedented level of oppression and antagonism in the world now,” guitarist Matt Rockman reflects. “We tried to hold these experiences of conflict in mind while writing, whether societal, interpersonal, or romantic.”
Never content to remain in one mode for too long, the album also highlights how one tries to reconcile such pervasive conflict. “Some turn to diversions and distraction, others look to external adventures, and a few turn their focus inward towards meditation and reflection,” Rockman adds. The album concludes with a note of hope while remaining soberingly aware that regardless of how we navigate these challenges, people have historically been unable to put aside their differences for long.
Descent was recorded by Michael Washkevich at MDW Productions in Harrisburg, PA. The album was mixed by Steve Durose (Oceansize, Vennart, Amplifier). Frank Arkwright provided mastering at Abbey Road Studios.
Get merch and more, including a brand new t-shirt designed by Bima Priantana, at https://shop.thedepthbeneathus.com/
Tracklist
| 1. | Trust Thermocline | 5:21 |
| 2. | Cluster B | 5:57 |
| 3. | Head And The Transient Love | 5:22 |
| 4. | Jealousy Professor | 4:57 |
| 5. | Hessdalen Lights | 4:19 |
| 6. | Emprise | 4:35 |
| 7. | Apollonian | 6:33 |
| 8. | 117B | 5:02 |
| 9. | Descent | 7:39 |
| 10. | Closure | 5:39 |
Credits
The Depth Beneath Us: Mike McCormick (Guitar), Daniel Eckrich (Guitar), Matt Rockman (Guitar), Ryan Manning (Bass), Wes Shatzer (Drums)
Written and performed by The Depth Beneath Us
Recorded by Michael Washkevich at MDW Productions, Harrisburg, PA
Mixed by Steve Durose
Mastered by Frank Arkwright at Abbey Road Studios
Cover artwork by Jan Porcellis, The Hallwyl Museum/SHM
Thanks to: our spouses and families for putting up with us throughout this process again; Dave Clifford // US/THEM Group; Wout & Federico // dunk!pressing; C.J. // A Thousand Arms; Niels De Roo // De Mist; Ronnie // WherePostRockDwells
