Explosions in the Sky - The Earth is Not a Cold Dead Place
(Temporary Residence)
Right now, being an all instrumental post-rock band with leanings toward Mogwai or Godspeed You Black Emperor is not only unfashionable, but would make it nearly impossible to establish a reputation for originality or relevance. Explosions in the Sky however, came roaring out of the faceless masses when they released their second album, Those Who Tell the Truth... with it's eerily timely artwork and the music's chaotic uplift.
Rising to the challenge of following up that album, they've just released their third album, The Earth is Not a Cold Dead Place. And while they haven't radically altered their approach, they have taken a slightly riskier tack. After Mogwai's debut garnered massive attention for it's explosive dynamics and energetic afterburn, they released a more subdued and pensive album. Come on Die Young is still a hotly debated album, some (myself included) think it's their best, while others think it's easily their worst. The Earth.. doesn't subdue Explosions in the Sky enough to draw too many of these lines in their fans' sand, but it could turn some off.
With the increase in calm comes added complexity, a broader scope and more weight. The opening track, "First Battle After Coma" is carried by the beautiful weaving of the guitars' melodies and rhythm, reaching for an energizing mix of Sonna and Steve Reich. "Memorial" ebbs on a current of drones before slowly crashing ashore in a slow motion ping pong between pensive melody and accelerated exhalations. By the time they've reached the end, "Your Hand in Mine," the music has achieved a relaxed and confident enough plane that it's as lyrical as any Will Oldham song. Music of this sort may be considered played out and overdone by many, but this is Explosions in the Sky's best yet.
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