Locust Leaves
A Subtler Kind of Light
(I, Voidhanger Records)
Greece’s Locust Leaves use extreme metal as a sort of necessary platform to extend its true vision – one of disambiguation. They prove that art and freedom is necessary if a band really wants to move. And Locust Leaves do so wildly: high, low, wide and true. The band’s first full-length (and first recording since a split with Spectral Lore back in 2012), A Subtler Kind of Light, is at once fresh and intimate, sweating droplets of realness in abundance.
Density—in a progressive and mathematical design—is a rich piece of Locust Leaves’ approach. But there’s an organic quality as well, and every section blends the two methods seamlessly. “Light (Fos)”, wades in a sort of classical system. The high structure allows for a special ascendance. Like if Atheist, Stratovarious and Mr. Bungle forged together in spirit. There’s rhythm and space, and an emphasis on impact. When the band branches off towards the rear, the pureness and groove are really immediate.
“Pillar (Vraxos)”, is a smooth equation. The band makes sure to connect warmly with its desires. There’s patience, and it pays off. The song is intense, but also sweet, pulsating and then diming lusciously. A jazz quality is present: a deep care for each calculated sound that’s made.
“Flight (Ptisi)” further persuades the cinematic tone that band flashes throughout the record. Fellini metal could be a good way to describe it. There’s progression, technicality, and a wildness that really allows Locust Leaves to be loose and exact. There are a lot of turns and jaunts on A Subtler Kind of Light: a record with only four songs, but each one a mini-masterpiece and story unto itself. Locust Leaves took something like five years to make this record, and it was worth the wait. The overall naturalness will allow you to breathe hugely, and the hints of digital morphing will make you curious and content.
