ALBUM REVIEW: In Verses – Karnivool
As the old saying goes, absence makes the heart grow fonder. After 13 painstaking years since the release of Asymmetry, many a KARNIVOOL fan can be found frothing at the mouth with the release of In Verses drawing ever closer. Landing on February 6th via Cymatic Records / Sony Music, their fourth full-length effort could prove to be the most pivotal installment of their career thus far. Will it be able to shoulder the weight of such lofty expectations?
Ghost eases you in with intriguing electronica before blossoming into a vibrant, engaging array of colourful tones. Crunchy riff sequences intertwine with the silky vocals of enigmatic talisman Ian Kenny. Drone is equally as alluring. The addictive rhythms effortlessly become ingrained in your ear canals, particularly the chorus segment. Aozora offers up punchy drum beats alongside evocative melodies. The clever layering possesses a cathartic, immersive nature which is undeniably infectious.
Animation opts for a gentler approach, gracefully gliding along on smooth, soothing bass lines before picking up momentum as it progresses. Conversations also favours a dreamy, alluring flow. Skilful flair is modestly showcased throughout to inject some flavour at the appropriate times. Reanimation pensively strolls at a leisurely pace. Bright textures casually drift into the arrangement as the track patiently simmers away.
All It Takes dishes out some hefty grooves for you to sink your teeth into. The gritty undertones work a treat sat aside the emotive vocal passages. Remote Self Control neatly navigates shifting between heavier and softer palettes. Snappy drumming and slick riff work prove to be a dynamic pairing. Opal tugs on your heartstrings with its melancholic, delicate delivery. The encompassing orchestration lures you in like a soulful siren as you are unable to divert your gaze. Salva subtly arrives into view. Its calming cadence puts you at ease. It may not be the most emphatic of conclusions but the satisfying crescendo will still leave a grin etched upon your face.
Some bands return after lengthy absences and fall into the trap of struggling to leap over the bar they have previously set for themselves. Fear not, KARNIVOOL have triumphantly perched themselves back on their rightful throne atop the summit of progressive metal. In Verses contains all the hallmarks which have brought them such acclaim as well as an assured approach that avoids dwelling too much on previous accomplishments and continues to push their creativity down inventive avenues. A rewarding return from one of Australia’s finest exports.
Rating: 9/10
In Verses is out now via Cymatic Records/Sony Music.
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