Outrun the Sunlight – A Vast Field of Silence
Release Date: 12th November 2021
Label: Self Released
Bandcamp
Genre: Progressive Metal, Instrumental, Rock.
FFO: The Contortionist, Plini, Cloudkicker, Scale The Summit.
Review By: Tyler Sharkey
Chicago, Illinois. Most people probably think of Michael Jordan and The Bulls or the city’s famous pizza when they hear its name. Unfortunately, many probably don’t consider it to be very well known for its progressive music scene, but one band might come to change that in the near future. Since 2011, Outrun The Sunlight have been on an epic musical journey, creating a thematic and engaging soundscape as well as a name for themselves in the music industry. They’ve toured with well-known artists such as Native Construct and also released a live album through popular music series, Audiotree in 2016. Now they’ve returned with their fourth full-length album titled, A Vast Field Of Silence.
I’m just going to come right out and say it. This album is a musical masterpiece. It is crystal clear from the stunning opening track, Awareness, that Outrun The Sunlight are a group of artists who eat, sleep and breathe music. With no words spoken, the band manages to communicate a wide range of intense emotions while painting extremely vivid imagery using various instruments, effects and patterns. Meditative melodies surround each track, with one specific phrase repeating throughout, binding the record together into one cohesive story. And while the guitars are definitely the driving force behind the band, not one member is outshone here. Tracks like, Emerald Joy and Brindle are just two examples of songs that are full of juicy basslines, groovy percussion and otherworldly keys that will keep you coming back for more. The album comes to a satisfying conclusion with the titled track, A Vast Field Of Silence. An incredibly immersive song that beautifully fades away into, well, silence. Leaving the listener left to reflect on themselves and the sonic experience they just had.
As far as major criticisms go, I don’t have many. It’s difficult to stand out in this genre, and although they certainly could show a little more originality at times, Outrun The Sunlight do a decent job keeping things fresh, and I have no doubt they’ll continue to excel at what they do. A Vast Field Of Silence is thematic and inspiring. It’s a must-listen for fans of instrumental music, and I think most people will enjoy it no matter what their musical preferences are.
(5 / 5)
