EP REVIEW: SOLITAER – The Hirsch Effekt

German progressive metal outfit THE HIRSCH EFFEKT have never settled for simplicity or going through the motions. Every passing release exhibits phenomenal levels of experimentation and the freshly released SOLITAER continues to push that mentality to the limit. The three new tracks from this release were written by each individual band member during the various bouts of isolation with a view to providing a collection of unique experiences.

In the opening segments, Palingenesis is like a rush of colour and vibrancy; plentiful atmospherics and enticing melodies descend into bursts of furious shredding. The combination of both styles brings a euphoric, energetic sensation to the forefront. Maniacal blast beats run riot as the Jekyll vs Hyde vocal trade-offs provide an electric clash of creativity.

Nares, on the other hand, paints a much bleaker, more aggressive picture. Vicious screams accompany the hefty, groove-ridden hooks. Wild lead work further enhances the frenzied nature of this piece as the various tempo shifts keep you guessing. It feels like an internal monologue riddled with struggle and torment.

Amorphus dials up the chaos, launching jarring drum rhythms and discordant riff sequences in your direction. Haunting clean elements are introduced but you are constantly on edge, waiting for an additional assault to pounce on you at a moment’s notice. Listeners who have missed the brutality of THE DILLINGER ESCAPE PLAN will be frothing at the mouth at some of the insanity which is unleashed throughout this track.

Gregaer will feel familiar to established fans from the orchestral version and EP of the same name. Whilst not as opulent and grandiose as its predecessor, it allows more opportunity for the musicianship to shine through and still provides a dramatic punch.

Taking the opportunity to focus on their individual songwriting abilities this time round has really paid dividends. SOLITAER almost feels like a secret backstage pass into the inner workings of THE HIRSCH EFFEKT‘s creative process. The three new tracks are equally as impressive in their own right but are very stylistically different and that is what makes it such an intriguing prospect. Very few bands are as technically adept as THE HIRSCH EFFEKT and they continue to show time and time again that they are not to be underestimated.

Rating: 8/10

SOLITAER is out now via Long Branch Records.

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