Double trouble from two of Boston's best
As most who follow the Boston underground rock scene know, Caspian and Constants are two groups that reign among the best in the area. Having toured and performed with each other on countless occasions, it seemed only inevitable that they would eventually pair up for a split release like this. Offered exclusively from Radar Recordings in the form of a 7” vinyl, the split showcases one brand new track from both bands, each of which pack an unbelievable punch.
Caspian’s contribution to their half of the split takes on a noticeably darker and heavier sound than their previous material. In “La Cerva,” the feeling of heaviness is driven by the presence of several guitar layers stacked on top of each other, a style increasingly adopted by the band with their addition of third guitarist Erin Burke-Moran. The entire song is a constant build, gradually gaining momentum and volume until exploding in a storm of delicious distortion, while drums and bass keep a steady driving rhythm throughout. It may not be their most intricate or diverse piece, but “La Cerva” is definitely a powerful track, and hopefully a good first glimpse at what direction the band might take in future releases.
After Caspian sets the foundation during the split’s first half, Constants bursts forth triumphantly with “…Passage,” a track filled with the band’s trademark post/prog-rock sound that just might be their best yet. If the mesmerizing, technically precise space-riffs don't rock your face off, surely the soaring vocal harmonies and pummeling rhythm will be more than enough to win you over. In truth, the only thing not to like about “…Passage” is that it’s only one song. Fortunately though, the band is planning to release its next LP sometime this summer, which with any luck will be just as good (if not better) than what “…Passage” manages to achieve.
Through this split, Caspian and Constants have managed to further develop their ongoing partnership as Boston’s best progressive acts and have proven that they make a remarkably effective pair. Both bands have crafted songs that both compliment their previous efforts while taking their sound forward into new territory, leaving us in ravenous anticipation for what the coming years will bring.
| Reviewer: Sean Butze Added: April 16th 2008 |
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