The UK post-metal scene is in full boom and is the healthiest it’s ever been. One inspiring aspect is the sheer number of bands who have found a flavour of their own to display. Adding to that is Scottish six piece Void of Light who follow the promise shown on their debut Trepanation Recordings EP with a storming debut album on the beloved Ripcord Records. Asymmetries is a perfect flex of post contemplation and metal might in a way unique to the UK scene.
There are plenty of the cornerstones of post-metal here but the songs move and flow in ways that shines a light on numerous influences without overtly distracting. Opener ‘The Passing Hour’ is a great example of the post-metal side of things with its crescendo guitar work which is never afraid to fall in on itself to build another peak to launch off. It also highlights one of the differentiators Void of Light offers in the exceptional vocal work of Ali Lauder. From monastic cleans to gruff singing and traditional post-metal screams, Lauder fits the mood perfectly with an incredible range and performance.
Another great achievement of the album is due to the adventurous nature of the song writing. Void of Light has opened itself up to bill worthy and appealing to more than just post-metal fans. ‘Ends’ has a raging metal intensity with enough post basis that it will enthuse the energetic as well as the reflective. A special highlight of the album is the epic ‘Still The Night Skies’ which has incredible layers of melody which combine with an incredible vocal hook which could raise the arm hair of the dead!
With Asymmetries, Void of Light has demonstrated an amazing ability to stand within genres and dominate them all. As either a metal or post band, Void of Light masters them both. There is a continuous weight and heaviness even in the moments of calm. The songs and performance is absolutely flawless and Asymmetries is a tremendous debut.
