ALBUM REVIEW: Divine Inner Tension – Hail The Sun
Californian progressive outfit HAIL THE SUN have consistently impressed with their seemingly boundless creativity throughout their storied career. 2021’s New Age Filth further cemented their status as one of the genre’s top acts and their eagerly awaited sixth full-length effort Divine Inner Tension, which is due for release on August 11th via Rude Records/Equal Vision Records, is poised to follow suit.
Tunnel Vision Alibi commences in a typically energised fashion with punchy drum/guitar combos and the smooth, melodic tones of frontman/drummer Donovan Melero. A powerful narrative sets the bar particularly high for what is to follow. Mind Rider brings forth some ridiculously infectious rhythms that you will be subconsciously humming along to days and weeks later. The dynamic shifts in tempo keep you alert. Chunker unleashes the technical flair we all know HAIL THE SUN possess with flourishes of expert riff sequences. Distinct punk undertones flow throughout giving this track an effortlessly accessible quality.
60-Minute Session Blocks displays a spacey, shimmering soundscape packed with pockets of energy that burst through the membrane. The melodies are so sleek and inviting that they casually seep into your ears with minimal persuasion. Maladapted gets the adrenaline pumping as it meticulously layers varying tones and moods to craft a wealth of euphoric sensations. The Story Writes Itself sustains this passion and vigour, pouring it generously into the buoyant instrumentation.
(In My Dream) offers up a bass-driven, dramatic snippet that serves as an introduction to I Saw You Hanging. The eccentric, quirky prose is fascinating and haunting in equal measure, partly due to the dark subject matter. Tithe opts for a lower tuning and a heavy, aggressive demeanor. Commanding screams and a charged drumming performance definitely leave a lasting impression.
Feeble Words is quite a contrast by comparison, allowing for a moment to catch your breath as the clean, graceful tones wash over you. Little Song proves to be anything but its understated namesake, kicking into gear with an additional round of sprightly riffing. Twists and turns aplenty and even a round of blast beats are thrown into the kitchen sink. Under The Floor has no intention of vacating the premises in a quiet fashion, instead choosing to power through waves of intense musicality scattered amongst the ever-present melody.
At this stage of their career HAIL THE SUN have already got their feet firmly planted under the table but there is still no room for complacency within their compositions. Divine Inner Tension is packed full of exciting textures and thought-provoking lyrical passages that are confidently executed. This effort is sure to be a firm favourite amongst their existing fanbase and also a perfect opportunity for newcomers to acquaint themselves.
Rating: 9/10
Divine Inner Tension is due for release on August 8th via Rude Records/Equal Vision Records.
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