Almost a decade and a half in the making, Aussie prog exports Karnivool have returned with their fourth album, ‘In Verses’. Since emerging out of Perth with 2005’s ‘Themata,’ the quintet have built a reputation built on sophisticated musicianship and sonic depth. 2009’s Sound Awake’ and ‘Asymmetry’ from 2013 merely made these foundations stronger, especially on the former. Like many prog groups, creating this type of music can be complex and a long process. Nevertheless, with members living apart, having other priorities, and a bit of determination for perfection, the wait for Karnivool‘s return is over.
Bands of Karnivool‘s ilk make albums that require you to live with them. In short, ‘In Verses’ isn’t a record that comes and goes in a flash. And when you’re sonically intricate like Karnivool, you don’t want it to be. ‘Ghost’ sets the tone early on with Ian Kenny’s signature vocals being complemented by bold instrumentation. Executed with a sense of familiarity, its cinematic chorus pulsates with a twisting bass line. Its conclusion allows guitarists Drew Goddard and Mark Hosking to bounce off one another with droning riffs.
As the record settles, Karnivool are in full flow. For example, ‘Drone’ swaggers in its groove before delivering a radiant chorus with revving guitars. Yet it is ‘In Verses’ three central tracks that I keep coming back to. ‘Animation’ plays off the band’s use of atmosphere. Anchored by Jon Stockman’s pensive bass, Goddard and Hosking’s distortion pierces through the calmness. Meanwhile, Kenny’s words of “release me” and “We almost had it all,” paint a picture of morality and fear. Next is ‘Conversations,’ the album’s longest track at 8 minutes long, yet with its hypnotic execution and Kenny’s cathartic voice, it just about uses its time well, but only just. Nevertheless, its atmospheric textures and emotional depth allow ‘Conversations’ to be a compelling highlight. It’s complemented by ‘Reanimation,’ and its meditative tone. Aided by guest guitarist Guthrie Govan, Karnivool maintain the escapist imagery with a wide sound scope. However, it considerably outstays its welcome.
The final run of tracks allows the members of Karnivool to individually and collectively shine. Whether that is Goddard and Hosking’s crushing riffs dominating on the remastered cut of the 2021 single, ‘All It Takes,’ or Steve Judd’s domineering drum work on ‘Remote Self Control’. Then there’s harp-assisted ballad, ‘Opal.’ Utilising sweeping strings, it highlights Ian Kenny’s impassioned vocal ability. Yet his guitar-wielding pals aren’t far behind to serve up some almighty riffs.
‘Opal’ neatly segues into ‘In Verses’ concluding track, ‘Salva’. Here, Kenny’s words are mournful and reflective, and as Stockman’s bassline subtly chugs away underneath, you’re pulled to hang on his every word. Alongside its ethereal guitars, it builds to a triumphant crescendo with bagpipes and synths joining them on ‘In Verses’ final voyage.
As a whole, ‘In Verses’ allows Karnivool to reintroduce themselves with confidence. Some moments flourish off the musicianship of its creators, while others come off as what we’ve come to expect from Karnivool, even with the 13-year gap. Nonetheless, it’s a layered and rich offering that rewards listeners throughout.
‘In Verses’ by Karnivool is released on February 6th on Cymatic Records / Sony Music.
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