SEETHER
The Surface Seems So Far
Fantasy Records
With the pandemic fading into memory, music fans are finally getting back into the groove of discovering new albums and catching live shows. It's been over four years since South African alternative metal band SEETHER released new material, and their 9th studio album, The Surface Seems So Far, is set to drop on September 20, 2024. Dust off your BlackBerry and mark your calendar because this album is sure to take you back to those post-grunge days filled with youthful angst and rebellion.
As we delve into SEETHER's latest release, it's only fitting to start with the opening track, "Judas Mind". If you haven't been living under a rock for the past few months, you've likely heard this song-it's been steadily climbing the charts and getting substantial airplay since its release. True to SEETHER's signature style, "Judas Mind" is raw, emotional, and aggressive, with lyrically sophisticated elements that make it memorable long after the music stops. The track features Shaun Morgan's guttural vocals seamlessly intertwined with the compelling guitar riffs of Corey Lowery and Dale Stewart. It sets a powerful tone for the album, showcasing SEETHER's mastery and hinting at the excellence that awaits throughout the rest of the record.
Track Two, "Illusion", kicks off with a solo guitar hook that brings to mind TOOL's "Sober". The melody soon shifts to a heavy drumbeat from John Humphrey, providing a solid foundation beneath Shaun Morgan's poetic vocals. While it retains that quintessential SEETHER sound, there's a touch of DEFTONES influence that seeps through. The song reaches its peak in the middle, where powerful screams and a blazing guitar solo collide in a moment that's pure, unadulterated "WOW!"
"Beneath The Veil" evokes a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of SEETHER's 2002 release, Disclaimer. Among the 11 tracks on The Surface Seems So Far, this one stands out as the most quintessentially SEETHER, echoing the band's classic sound. While it may not possess the secret sauce of iconic tracks like "Broken" or "Fine Again", it undeniably captures the essence of their early work. The song's arrangement, tone, and lyrical content pays homage to a time when SEETHER was defining their post-grunge identity. It feels like a heartfelt nod to their roots, making it a standout track for longtime fans who appreciate the band's original style.
Track Four, "Semblance of Me", is a profoundly poetic journey that begins as a forlorn ballad but builds to a powerful climax. Initially, the song paints a picture of gloom and despair, setting a somber tone with its reflective lyrics and intricate instrumentation. However, as it progresses, it transforms into a compelling narrative of growth and courage. The music crescendos with increasing intensity, mirroring the evolution of the song's message from one of struggle to a triumphant declaration of resilience and self-discovery. This transformation makes "Semblance of Me" not only a standout track but also a moving testament to overcoming adversity.
Another standout track that's poised to make a big splash is "Walls Come Down" This song revisits the delicate balance of power and musicianship that characterized hits like "Rise Above This" and "Breakdown". With its compelling blend of intensity and melody, "Walls Come Down" is crafted to resonate strongly with both long-time fans and newcomers alike. Its dynamic sound and engaging composition make it a track that's likely to capture the attention of a broad audience, appealing especially to those discovering SEETHER's music for the first time.
"Dead On The Vine" stands out as a lyrical masterpiece, skillfully exploring the stark contrast between cynicism and optimism. The song weaves a dark narrative that juxtaposes the concepts of salvation against a backdrop of suffering and abandonment. It captures a poignant reflection on how, in today's world, we often overlook the struggles of those around us, choosing to either turn a blind eye or ignore them altogether. This track, with its deep, introspective message, emerges as the most gripping song on the album, resonating powerfully with listeners and challenging them to confront their own perceptions and responses to the hardships faced by others.
The Surface Seems So Far is a fantastic addition to SEETHER's discography. From start to finish, the album delivers a sound that is unmistakably SEETHER, showcasing their hallmark blend of exemplary musicianship and vivid imagery. The band has crafted a masterful record that stays true to their identity while exploring new dimensions within their established style. While it may not have left me completely awestruck, I am genuinely pleased with this release and encourage you to give it a listen. It's a testament to SEETHER's enduring talent and creativity.
4.4 Out Of 5.0
