Krobak
Nightbound
(Self-Release)
From the first few notes struck on Nightbound it is apparent that Krobak are looking to venture in a different direction from previous endeavours. The moods created on opener “Stringer Bell” resemble accents akin to the likes of post rock giants Swans, certain movements on this song however are not entirely welcomed upon arrival. The heavier guitar chords, albeit executed competently, feel and sound thrown on top of the extraordinarily ethereal undertone which unfortunately draws from the emotiveness of the song. The climatic section finishes on a high with the band deploying distorted feedback that helps re-imagine the somber sensitivity of the first half of the song.
The following track is the most persuasive presentation of prog rock Nightbound has to offer. The scathing strings that lay the foundation can be attributed to being stereotypical of progressive rock although Krobak’s heavier harmonies is where they are distinct in sound. “No Pressure, Choice Is Yours” is laudable in many ways most notably regarding the bands overall range, the only objection again regarding song composition. The movements on this song are not movements at all, rather pivots, sharply shooting off in opposing directions that can cause an incoherence.
“So Quietly the Night Falls” is startlingly cinematic. This exquisite example of creating a real sense of unease shows this band’s towering potential. The drumming in particular is what helps maintain the impeccable tempo. This coupled with the plucked guitar notes and drawn out violin allow this song to flourish.
As the final track title implies, “Marching for the Freedom We Have Lost”, the percussion is comparable to that of a marching band, feathered in the beginning accelerating towards louder, harsher areas. Yet again cinematic comparisons are notable, this time the daunting violin chords resemble those heard in the masterful introduction of Hans Zimmer’s The Dark Knight score albeit nowhere near as chilling. This final track, in title and sound, mirrors the tumultuous times the band’s homeland of Ukraine has recently sadly endured.
Although not a perfect album by any stretch of the imagination, Krobak have set a formidable precedence of what we can expect to come from the Ukrainian four piece. With more highlights than detracting factors, Nightbound is an album that will present unearthed delights to the listener with every listen.
