ALBUM REVIEW: Lightwork – Devin Townsend

You cannot deny that DEVIN TOWNSEND has had arguably one of the most storied careers in the history of music, always following his own path and never pandering to demands to retread through his past exploits. Lightwork is available now via InsideOut Music and it’s another feather in the already brimming cap of a true visionary of his craft.

Moonpeople commences with a peaceful, calming pacing and subtle melodies. This is not the usual approach we have come to expect from Townsend but it is certainly welcome as his vocal lines float gracefully throughout this delicate arrangement. Lightworker follows suit with a similarly upbeat mood whilst throwing a bit more bombast and flair into the mix. The sentiments tug on your heartstrings as the track seeks to be a beacon of hope for those who may be encountering struggles in their life. Equinox feels like pure escapism but does contend with some pretty intense subject matter that is amplified by the grittier vocal inclusions.

Call Of The Void opens its arms and provides some comforting advice, to not get too entwined in the sea of negativity that can sometimes plague social media and the unfolding state of the world. The narrative and tone utilised are equally evocative and engaging. Heartbreaker kicks it up a gear, delving into more familiar, experimental splendour. The multitude of layers slot together seamlessly as you are transported through a variety of sensations. Towards the latter stages, a dark heaviness begins to seep in. Dimensions goes rogue and descends into sweet, sweet anarchy – punchy drum beats, crunchy riffs with a pinch of added chaos.

Celestial Signals bursts into waves of colour in a euphoric fashion. The uplifting demeanour is infectious and re-energising. Heavy Burden proves to be quite an intriguing offering, combining light and dark elements to conjure up an increased level of theatricality. Vacation gently whisks you away from all of your troubles with its friendly, welcoming nature. In true Townsend fashion, he chooses to wrap this release up with a ten-minute epic. Children Of God is packed full of drama, shifts in mood and keeps you captivated along every step of the way, effectively coming full circle as it closes just as the album opened.

Lightwork is exactly the kind of album we need in our lives after such a tumultuous, draining year. DEVIN TOWNSEND has once again proved why he is one of the most multi-faceted musicians to ever grace the industry as he continues to reinvent himself whilst still managing to stay familiar and endearing. Even if you have a particular affinity to his heavier, more maniacal works, you’d be foolish to gloss over this glorious endeavour.

Rating: 9/10

Lightwork is out now via InsideOut Music.

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