ALBUM REVIEW: Coherence – Be’lakor

Australian progressive death metal collective BE’LAKOR have continued to impress with their fearless and ingenuitive approach to song-writing, amassing an impressive collection of releases during their extensive career. Somehow it has been a staggering five years since the release of their highly regarded Vessels album, but fear not, as the quintet are poised to make their triumphant return in the form of their fifth full-length release entitled Coherence which arrives on October 29th via Napalm Records. Will this effort continue to establish their legacy?

Locus slowly and methodically builds a swelling soundscape that lures you right into its trap. A savage wave of vicious growls and punishing drum work comes hurtling right into your ears. As the track progresses it transitions in mood and tempo, not allowing you the opportunity for complacency. An abundance of melodic tones cascade throughout the arrangement, whisking you away and transporting you through a spectrum of emotions. Its substantial run time seems to just evaporate as it immerses you in its captivating chapters. The Dispersion is almost a palate cleanser of sorts, weaving a web of dramatic piano work that sets the stage for the intense riff bursts of Foothold. Whilst maintaining a sharp and dark demeanour, the accompanying instrumentation adds an uplifting, vibrant quality. The twisting and turning narrative gets your adrenaline flowing with anticipation, wondering what may be lurking around the corner.

Valence feels like the opening scenes of an epic, cinematic voyage, or gearing yourself up for battle. The confident pacing and theatrical mood are particularly invigorating as the track neatly shifts gears to up the intensity levels. Towards the latter stages some alluring acoustic elements are introduced, adding another layer of diversity to the expansive canvas. Sweep Of Days displays a sombre yet soothing approach, allowing you to soak in the cathartic atmospherics. The absence of the abrasive vocal lines allows the track to breathe and encapsulate you in the dynamic melodies. Hidden Window resumes the aggressive delivery but continues to keep the intriguing interchange of heaviness and harmonies.

Indelible offers up another portion of poignant escapism with eloquently executed acoustic work that begins to build in stature, teeing up the grand finale. Much More Was Lost starts off strongly, charging out of the gates with intricate riffing and snappy drum beats. The interlacing melodies seep right into your veins as they slot seamlessly together with the more vigorous elements of the arrangement. Whether it is lulling you into a peaceful slumber or scorching your flesh with explosive intensity the levels of exhilaration never falter – determined and commanding until the very end.

BE’LAKOR have been such an imposing force throughout their career and Coherence further cements the fact that they are a special talent. The sheer wealth of sensations that this album evokes is a joy to experience and it is tastefully executed without ego or self-indulgence. Its runtime may test the attention span of the casual listener, but for the avid prog enthusiast this is guaranteed to be a thrilling adventure.

Rating: 9/10

Coherence is set for release on October 29th via Napalm Records.

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