Ropes Inside A Hole – A Man And His Nature
Release Date: 10th January 2023
Label: Voice of the Unheard/Shove Records
Bandcamp
Genre: Post-Metal, Post-Rock.
FFO: Pelican, Russian Circles, Explosions In The Sky.
Review By: Hillary Wisniewski
Swedish/Italian post-metal collective Ropes Inside a Hole (RIAH) are back with a new line-up and reinvigorated since the 2018 release of their debut album Autumnalia. On the new work, A Man And His Nature, there are some changes that fans can expect and dynamics that are sure to entice new listeners. According to the press release, “This album was brought to life during the strange period of quarantine, with all that comes with it: isolation, doubt, nostalgia, fear and anger…” and the work “… immediately unfolds the changes in the band’s music, revealing a more introspective sound.” With six gifted band members, plus the talents of musicians from around the globe, A Man And His Nature boasts a rich and complex post metal sound.
Listening to this gem was the auditory equivalent of being on a river. One sets out not knowing what to expect, but open to being part of a beautiful soundscape. Gently we float, our weight slips away as we meander into the unknown. The sound washes over us, warm and soothing down the marrow of our bones. Gorgeous guitar with undercurrents of cello, synth, and even saxophone play off of the walloping of the rhythm section. Just when we are comfortable with the peace of our surroundings, we hit rough waters; massive and voluminous sounds shake us and unsettle us until we find our way back to ambling downstream again. Not every work will give you this type of feeling or invoke this imagery, but RIAH have created something quite special. Vocals are generally sparse, but when present act as a siren call, allowing us to crash into a myriad of emotions.
A Man And His Nature is not just another record, but rather an experience. It is one of those works you will find yourself turning to during your difficult days or when you just want to decompress. I would liken it to a pressure release valve. But amongst the gentle and complex sounds, there is heaviness scattered about. RIAH are not afraid to experiment with sound and test out elements that aren’t typical for post metal. The inclusion of saxophone is a good example of this; it seems like there has been a resurgence in the metal world as of late in terms of use of saxophone. I would not have thought it could work well in the context of the overall mood of this album, but it does. I can appreciate when a band is willing to test new waters, and RIAH certainly do so. Put on this record and enjoy the journey!
(4.5 / 5)
