Textures - Phenotype

***1/2

Plenty going on to listen to!

While I have to admit this is the first album I have listened to by Textures since 'Silhouettes' back in 2008! Why they fell off my radar I don’t know because I really enjoyed that album, So I will be taking big leaps back in comparing this album to that, also take into account that the band have had three new members join since then, mainly a new vocalist and keyboardist so I was expecting some massive changes in sound.

While on this new release 'Phenotype' they band has clearly moved on since 2008 there are still little subtle sounds and styles that remain in the band that they retain. For those new to the band, the band’s name sums them up quite nicely.

The band is heavy but not brutal, dense I find a more suitable description and they are massive in scope. When I say they have melodic passages or sung choruses bear in mind you are not dealing with another run of the mill Metalcore band here, the band’s songs are emotionally heavy and with the keys and melodies a massive soundscape is created. You visualize huge landscapes. Waterfalls, mountains etc while listening to this band.  

Opening track 'Oceans Collide' probably shows the band at their most pit friendly, don’t get me wrong there are some massive riff’s here and when the band want to turn it up they are heavy as F**K! Just take for instance when single 'New Horizons' kicks in. One criticism and It’s a nit picking one I know but with the rise of Djent and bands like Heart of a coward and Periphery, Textures used to have their own sound and stood out amongst the pack and now it feels  a lot of bands have caught up with them and they don’t stand out as much.

With that being said with tracks like 'Illuminate the Trial' the band are hardly slacking. The best part by far is the albums climax, first we get a short piano passage with 'Zman' and then the awesome album closer 'Timeless' this is simply a beautiful song where all the bands strengths are on full display the drums, the keys and the layered vocals mixed together are simple sublime.

There is plenty going on and more is revealed with each listen. While if you are new to the band I recommend you start with 'Silhouettes' but this album is a grower which will please fans and is a great addition to the band’s growing catalogue.

Review by Joe Denby

Listen! to the Track 'Illuminate the Trail' Below...