The Depth Beneath Us

Atmosphere and layering are the cornerstone of Pennsylvania's post-rock maximalists . Particularly on their forthcoming sophomore album Descent, the quintet finds captivating new ways to build symphonic guitar layers, vaguely reminiscent of how U2’s Joshua Tree created wide open, soaring sonic spaces. But the band also deftly combines this with post-metal structures, progressive melodies and emotive songwriting to make sweeping songs that build truly orchestral passages and crescendos.

Add to that Battles' dissection of electronic music, Russian Circles' dramatic metallic guitars, and punchy rhythms, and one can get a sense of this epic masterwork.

Descent is their new ten-song, 55-minute full-length. From the pummeling opening riffs of “Trust Thermocline” to the time-twisting rhythms of the title track, it's clear that their increased ambition has paid dividends without compromising an ability to craft intricate and memorable songs.