Envy: Abyssal

Since 1992, Envy has been seen as Japan’s premiere “hardcore” group. The designation, however, undermines the band’s prowess and vision.

Ultimately, the band could be seen as the quintessential bridge between brutal, Isis-inspired heaviness and the relaxed instrumentals of Explosions In The Sky.

Comparisons aside, the long-running group tops itself with its new “mini-album” Abyssal. The disc’s transitions are seamlessly executed, creating a utopia between abrasive nature and dreamy structural nuances.

Album opener “A Road of Winds the Water Builds” encapsulates the direction, briefly seducing the listener with quietness before blasting eardrums with a sludgy wall of sound and harsh, muffled vocals. Whether you prefer the harsh or soft aspects, the experience is catharic.

Although the band provides the English translation to their lyrics in the liner notes, it’s not a necessary component to the experience. The emotional intensity that pours out of every note and rhythm is profound.

In a perfect world, this is the direction that hardcore would be taking.

- Matt Pullman

Envy: www.sonzairecords.com/envy.html
Temporary Residence: www.temporaryresidence.com