ALBUM REVIEW: Genotype – Textures

The metal world entered a collective state of mourning when Dutch progressive metal heroes TEXTURES announced they would be disbanding shortly after releasing 2016’s Phenotype. A glaring hole was left in the genre, which some feared would never be filled. 2023 answered many a prayer when the band unveiled their intentions to return. After many discussions on the origins of their unreleased Genotype album, it was later explained that any material that had been composed was to be shelved, with a completely new offering in the making. The time has finally arrived, with Genotype landing on January 23rd via Kscope. Will the agonising wait be worth it?

Void invites you to pull up a seat, welcoming you with a palette of vivid colours in the form of expansive synths and dramatic drum beats. Get comfortable and bask in the warming glow. At The Edge Of Winter bursts into life with a wave of jarring but enticing heaviness. Punchy grooves and the delectable vocal tones of Daniel de Jongh join the fold, soon to be followed by the equally impressive Charlotte Wessels. The dynamic layering of both vocals and masterful instrumentation offers a bright, uplifting soundscape with a sprinkling of grit towards the latter stages. Measuring The Heavens continues the emotive thematics, ebbing and flowing as it unfolds. Tense vocoder segments trade prominence with crunchy riffing. Spikes in aggression make their presence felt.

Nautical Dusk rhythmically navigates the balance between light and dark shades. Its addictive, buoyant pacing keeps you engaged alongside powerful, soaring vocal work. Vanishing Twin immerses you in a diverse array of gripping sensations. Cleverly shifting between energetic drum patterns and alluring synths. Commanding growls leave an emphatic stamp. Closer To the Unknown comes armed with infectious hooks and a sharp bite. The chorus borders on anthemic and will be a perfect accompaniment to their upcoming live shows. Add a plentiful dose of scintillating lead work and the results are a certified banger.

A Seat For The Like-Minded adopts an ominous, moody nature. Sprawling riffs and impassioned narratives combine, resulting in intriguing theatricality. Walls Of The Soul sustains this mentality, slowly simmering before developing into lively flourishes. Percussive proficiency and hard-hitting string attacks guide you through this thrilling adventure. A very satisfying conclusion to a remarkable return.

Resurfacing after such a significant hiatus without losing a single step is not an easily achievable feat but this is precisely what TEXTURES have accomplished here. Deftly crafted melodies betwixt bouts of hefty riff work will certainly attract the old faithful and newcomers alike. Genotype possesses everything you could wish for from the progressive metal flagbearers. Long may their revival continue.

Rating: 9/10

Genotype is set for release on January 23rd via Kscope Music.

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