Locrian - Infinite Dissolution (Relapse Records) 2015
8
Themes of human extinction often bring to mind ravaged, post-apocalyptic destruction – Infinite Dissolution feels more like the Singularity, the philosophical end point where technological intelligence surpasses biological and everything beyond is left to fate to decide. The flux between organic and synthetic is fundamental here, with bursts of blastbeaten fury and rushing, ascendant melodies bringing cold and warmth to beds of static and white-hot noise, and gradually the two coalesce as KXL II swirls crackling static and neoclassical strains while The Great Dying’s swathes of cinematic synthwork use atmosphere in lieu of vocals to progress its mournful narrative. Stirring and complex, yet sublimely hook-laden at points, this is the perfect entry point for those intimidated by Locrian’s extensive back catalogue, an infinitely-layered and thought-provoking work that rivals even their best.