Harikiri For The Sky
Scorched Earth
AOP Records
Fusing post hardcore, black metal and post metal into huge vistas of sound Harikiri For The Sky have always been an immersive experience. On Scorched Earth they’ve refined their approach further still with beautiful twinkling melodies augmenting their blackened post hardcore assault. Fans of the recent Hidden Mothers album will find much to adore here as the anguished vocals intertwine with almost folky flourishes before unloading into blast beat passages, and mournful piano lead sonnets. This is an album that demands your full attention with some of the longer track lengths. It’s not all wistful though, there are plenty of mosh friendly moments to damage your neck. The incredible Without You I’m Just A Sad Song is a prime example as is epic album opener, Heal Me featuring Austere and No Graves But The Sea’s double kick barrage. If you want to get completely lost in a huge listen that covers new secrets over time this album is for you, it’s astounding in its vision and definitely rewards the time you invest as a listener. In a genius move Svalbard join the mix on the searing highlight, Too Late For Goodbyes with Serena Cherry’s distinctive larynx adding serrated bite and beautiful breathy melody in equal measures as she does so well.The hugest wow factor is reserved for last with GROZA joining in for a surprise cover of Radiohead’s Street Spirit, this is a jaw dropper and an incredible way to sign off. This sublime collection is highly recommended indeed!
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Review by George Miller