ALBUM REVIEW: Day And Age – Frost*

Progressive rock outfit FROST* may have flown under the radar for many years but they have done so with remarkable consistency. Despite various member shake-ups and a few bouts of hiatus the band are still fighting fit and raring to go. May 14th marks their long awaited fourth full-length release entitled Day And Age, a composition which is sure to delight newcomers and existing fans alike.

As we begin Day And Age a young voice advises you to “enjoy yourselves…you scum” to commence proceedings in a rather amusing choice of introduction. Harmonics begin to ring out alongside enticing melodies and a snappy drum beat. The emotive vocals really draw you into the unfolding narrative and the dramatic changes in tone and tempo ensure your gaze doesn’t wander.

Terrestrial throws some quirky experimentation into the mix to keep you on your toes. Punchy riff work and layered vocal segments mesh together seamlessly. Waiting For The Lie conjures up a tense soundscape with an alluring piano section. Whilst relatively minimalist in construction it evokes a wealth of emotion and has you hanging on every word and note.

The Boy Who Stood Still provides an intriguing yet peculiar story, depicting a boy who had the power to become invisible. This tale is immersed within an upbeat, enthralling round of instrumentation that contains intricate drum fills and inviting guitar work. Island Life exhibits warm melodic tones and an energetic, accessible demeanour to get your head nodding. The accompanying orchestral swathes send will send a shiver down your spine. Skywards takes a more curious turn, teasing and taunting you with little nuances that keep you guessing which direction it will follow.

Kill The Orchestra initially feels pretty soothing until you catch wind of the lyrical content which gets very dark very quickly. There are still moments of serenity to be found but within a much broader, more foreboding canvas. Jarring riffs sneak attack you when you least expect them. As the track progresses it proves to be as exhilarating as it is haunting. Repeat To Fade reprises the welcoming phrase from earlier but with a more impactful bite. Prominent bass lines add an additional layer of groove to the track and help maintain the energy levels throughout, allowing for the album to depart on an evocative note.

Day And Age makes you quickly forgive and forget the fact that it has been five years since the last full length release by inviting you on a journey through various emotions and sensations. There isn’t a single moment where this effort becomes stale, safe or predictable, constantly chopping and changing styles to keep you entertained. The ongoing quirkiness becomes particularly endearing and adds to the charm which FROST* seem to possess in abundance. A thoroughly recommended addition to anyone’s collection.

Rating: 9/10

Day And Age is out now via InsideOut Music. 

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