Review Summary: A mammoth album chock full of density, atmosphere and underlying beauty. Probably one of, if not the best, albums that Cult of Luna have released.
Those of you whom are well versed and knowledgable in the subgenres of metal known as post metal and sludge are almost certain to have heard of (if not listened to) the Swedish group Cult of Luna. The band have been making waves in the industry for a fair few years now and have released some impressive albums. Their ability to meld together crushingly heavy and dense music with an emotional and ambient side is displayed, most probably best, on this release. Salvation is a monolithic - every song present on the album shows a band at the top of their game both in the instrumental and vocal department. Album opener Echoes is a masterpiece and premier showcase of how to build in layers and texture. It begins with soft guitar melodies, before transforming, ever so slowly, into a monstrous set of riffs and gruff vocals. The song itself is undoubtedly a highlight of the album but Salvation seeks to offer the listener so much more.
In terms of emotion, this is a superb example of an album brimming with honesty and truly heartfelt moments. The closing moments of Vague Illusions are magnificently epic in their simple guitar riffs and well placed keys, with the vocalist roaring prominently over the top. Bands in similar standing to Cult of Luna, such as ISIS, Neurosis and Pelican each have their own unique twist on the post metal genre. Cult of Luna seem to embellish their music with a certain mystical atmosphere. Every riff is tailored to fit into the music perfectly, from the hugely crushing riffs found in the album opener and Leave Me Here (as well as other tracks on the album) to the more sombre and intricately melodic moments. One such moment can be noticed in the track Leave Me Here - after the heavy section at the beginning, the song morphs into a wonderfully fragile section featuring some high vocals and lonely guitar leads - being all the more effective as you are once again thrust into the supremely crushing verses. Waiting For You starts with a foreboding and ominous clean guitar section, progressing gradually into a dense amalgamation of riffs and percussion. The bass is always audible, providing a powerful low end. Whilst the bassist never really comes at the listener with any real deviation from the guitars, the performance throughout is solid and satisfying to the ear.
In conclusion, Salvation is incredible from start to finish. I was very close to rating this a 5 (I'm still uncertain as to why I didn't in all honesty). The riffs are insurmountably heavy, the melodies are delicate and interesting and the vocal performance is second to none. Some may say this albums' follow up is better - however, nobody can deny the impact Salvation leaves upon the listener. Undoubtedly one of the greatest albums of the post metal genre - if you haven't heard it, then you need to. Experiencing the album as a whole is definitely the best way to approach it. All in all, the band may well have released their magnum opus. I for one certainly think Salvation will remain a great listen for many moons to come.
Recommended Tracks
Echoes
Vague Illusions
Into the Beyond
