ALBUM REVIEW: Alunea – Kardashev

KARDASHEV have gathered a significant reputation for throwing the rulebook out of the window and successfully splicing as many genres as they can carry. 2022’s Liminal Rite is regarded as a modern metal classic, setting the bar incredibly high for any material which should follow. Undeterred by such accolades the self-proclaimed deathgaze outfit have gratefully accepted the challenge with the release of Alunea which is available now via Metal Blade Records.

A Precipice. A Door. neatly walks the tightrope between illuminating vibrancy and commanding aggression. Enticing atmospherics and graceful vocal passages intertwine with energetic drum segments and impassioned screams. Reunion transitions between delicate, tranquil melodies and impressive technical intricacy in seamless fashion. The ebbing and flowing pace is effortlessly enthralling. Seed of the Night follows suit, commencing with an emotionally vulnerable nature that switches into colourful bursts of intensity.

Speak Silence possesses an immaculate clean tone immersed in melancholy. The instrumentation shines through with every element rising to prominence, bringing an additional alluring dynamic to the table. Truth to Form ups the ante as frenzied orchestration immerses you in its web of captivating complexity. The cleverly layered vocal stylings exhibit an outstanding wealth of light and dark elements. Edge of Forever witnesses a seismic shift in mood, opting for hefty grooves and gruesome gutturals. As the track progresses it neatly navigates between scathing screams and soulful soaring sequences.

We Could Fold the Stars displays a formidable stride, relentless drum work makes an immediate impact. Raw, evocative vocal eruptions send shivers down your spine as meandering bass lines provide a powerfully poignant accompaniment. Below Sun & Soil is somehow calming yet also unnerving. The contemplative introductory flow is swiftly negated by a fierce rush of adrenaline. The dramatic surges throughout keep you guessing.

KARDASHEV have crafted the formula for traversing waves of expansive escapism and explosive exhilaration without ever feeling reckless or jarring. This enables Alunea to effectively shift gears at just the right moment, allowing for a fascinating companionship between luminance and shade. The creative quartet have once again showcased why they are such a unique entity.

Rating: 9/10

Alunea is out now via Metal Blade Records.

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