The expansiveness of the underground is something that must be admired for all that it has become as well as what it can still be. Given enough time, energy, and talent, the seldom taken paths can become brimming with excellence with there almost always seems to be a band somewhere out there that’s trying new things and daring to try something different for any number of reasons. To witness such excursions blossom into grand efforts that are pillars of creativity is a privilege like few others. It’s only a matter of time before we get a name that goes against the grain and shows us the splendor of what has yet to be formed. Throughout the whole of their newest effort, Cratophane taps into that potential with grace and magnitude.

At any given time, I think it’s safe to say that we’re always in need of more instrumental metal. There are so many possibilities that have yet to be even lightly approached with such a simple concept, yet there just doesn’t seem to be many bands out there willing to explore those reaches for reasons that I cannot even begin to fathom. I have heard of Cratophane before with its particular blend of instrumental crossover of rock and metal to make for a bombastic and oftentimes psychedelic blend that holds nothing back. However, it’s with the arrival of their second album, “Exode”, that expectations have been blown open across both space and time. Across six exceedingly expansive tracks, Cratophane offers us a kaleidoscopic blend of noise rock, heavy psych, post-metal, and so much more to not just make this an intensely flavorful record, but one that’s downright experimental in nature, unapologetic of its free-spirited nature, and endlessly engaging as “Exode” ripples from bout of intensity to moments of serenity. All done against a highly sci-fi backdrop, “Exode” quickly takes on a life of its own. Not easily compared to much else throughout the scene and simply captivating, what Cratophane has carefully crafted here makes them one of the most interesting instrumental acts out there that we simply must keep an eye on, for if they are already capable of throwing down these grand compositions with loads of emotion, heaviness, intelligent songwriting, then what might they achieve given more time?

When we’re met with a band like this that can actually deliver on the concepts that are oftentimes left to the fanciful imaginations of listeners across the underground, we are obligated to stop and hail what we are bearing witness to. What Cratophane has accomplished here should be not understated for all that it offers and dares to bring to the table in such a compelling fashion. “Exode” offers us a great many things, and damn near every single one of those are worth fully diving into so that you become fully immersed with the majesty that’s on full display throughout the whole of this awe-inspiring creation.

“Exode” releases on October 3rd via I, Voidhanger Records!

LISTEN to an advanced track from “Exode” on Bandcamp here, or via YouTube below.

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