By Geoff Topley
I first encountered Dublin post-metalers Refraction a few years ago when they approached me with a view to supporting them in their home city. The rest of the bill was made up of some fairly heavy acts and I politely declined to do the show, in other words I chickened out fearing my act would be a little 'light' for proceedings. Refraction might well make heavy music, but it's also incredibly melodic. When stripped away of the obvious loudness, the Helixian EP features a dexterity of guitar playing that I think could even be played acoustically. They list influences such as Neurosis and Isis, but I'm surprised they don't mention Pelican, who I recognise most clearly from the four tracks on offer. Two feature (some) vocals '(T)hymine' and '(G)uanine', but largely it's instrumental rock goodness. I have to admit here that it's really the music that I enjoy from this whole genre, the growled vocals of many of today's metal acts never seem to appeal to me.
Refraction are clearly a very tight unit, they need to be, as the intertwining guitars, alternatively plucked melody lines and crushing slow chords work so well together. The dynamics within each track shift constantly and with consummate ease, all underpinned by some unobtrusive and unfussy drum patterns. If there's one minor issue I have with the EP, it's the production of the drum sound, can't put my finger on it, but I think a little more depth would enhance the massive sound the guitars create. The interplay between the guitars, shows a tremendous amount of soul, rather than just bludgeoning instruments for the sake of it. The restraint shown in the quieter melodic sections allows the dynamic of the tracks to falter, but still maintain a fierce and forceful impact. There are moments of sheer beauty throughout when the melodic guitars arch upwards, transcending and reaching that little bit further making Refraction stand out from an ever growing legion of metal bands roaming around this genre.
Obviously they're managing to stand out as there have been some notable support slots for the band along the way. Going to have to go back and get me a copy of their debut album now, should have done this before. I should also have had the balls to go play that show with them in Dublin.
Refraction. Immense riffs. Immensely enjoyable.
