Tacoma Narrows Bridge Disaster: Exegesis

With a name like Tacoma Narrows Bridge Disaster, (the name is taken famous a very famous event, which if you aren't familiar with, then you need to seek out the footage), one could concluded wrongly that the band would hail from the U.S.A. But in actuality, TNBD originate from London England, not that this has any real bearing on what is offered up here.

As for the album title Exegesis which is quite an unusual word which basically means, "a critical explanation or analysis of a text". In all reality though, this is a reference to the awesome Sci Fi writer Philip K Dick as Exegesis was the name of his journal that documented and explored his religious and visionary experiences. Fans of the writer will take one quick glance at the song titles and will immediately recognise what I am talking about.

For the most part the music played is instrumental, interactions that are sharp, convoluted, powerful, precise and highly addictive and this is where the band strikes gold. Vocally Dylan Foulcher's vocals do call to mind Michael Stipe, Eddie Vedder or Ed Kowalczky and really impact on the overall effect and dynamics of the songs when included.

The darkness of the instrumentation though it's where is at; the constructs are the real stars of the show, massive guitar sounds that form impenetrable walls of sonics that are punctuated by sedate beauty. The dual guitar work twists and turns together in perfect harmony, big powerchords executed, fascinating melodic arrangements complementing their presence, which is all solidly held together by the triumphant backline. The final complementation is the flawless tempo changes throughout, that really cements the bands sound.

The opening guitar driven Fractal World see's the band displaying their technical virtuosity, high energy and melodic interactions; Exegesis with its softer toned approach, climaxes in a stunning wall of sonics, making it one of the real standout tracks as is Calligraphy. Valis is a stunning piece that more than showcases the bands creative ability and reiterates the power of this band, whilst Black Iron Prison offers a more gritty and manic approach. In all actuality though all the pieces offered here really are of a high standard, not one second of wasted musical time or energy, which what you want really from a band and album. Based on what I have heard here, I will definitely be seeking more of their recordings.

If you like clever progressive / alt metal and post rock that contains copious amounts of attitude that resonates musically and undulates, that offers up sympathetic frequencies then this is definitely a band and album for you.

Track List:
1. Fractal World
2. Exegesis
3. Calligraphy
4. Valis
5. Black Iron Prison
6. Going Out Like Lights On A Switchboard
7. Sungazer
8. Wake

Added: February 28th 2012
Reviewer: John OBoyle
Score:
Related Link: www.bridgedisaster.co.uk
Hits: 3345
Language: english

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