For the last three decade, just a couple of grand names of veteran post-metal bands have largely been raised to cult status, while dozens of underrated bands have managed to make a name for themselves, releasing epic, spacious and interestingly textured records that create something unique and refreshing. “Darker Lakes” by Toronto based experimentalists SARIN serves a perfect example of a reinvention of the rusted formula and offers a new perspective that finds the band at their most ambitious and concise. We’re pleased to present this restlessly excellent record and give you an exclusive first-hand commentary on its content and sonic aesthetics.
The album is a recollection of a walk I took through the Oak Ridges Moraine around spring of last year. Expeditions like that tend to bring out the introspective side, so each song represents a reflection on a personal experience or realization at the time of writing. The idea when piecing together the lyrics was to connect those mini-epiphanies with the natural elements present throughout the walk. It’s obtuse, but that’s the only way I know how to write.
It’s a record about living with anxiety, and the isolation that it demands. Earlier tracks like “Ice Wrought” and “Amber Guide” address some of the more depressing aspects of disorder, while latter tracks like “Bloom” and “Low Moon” shine more of a hopeful light. I’d explain in greater detail if the same anxiety that serves as a focal point for the lyrics didn’t also keep me from disclosing too much about the effects it has on everyday life.
Despite that, I think it’s important to remember that the music itself is the product of our collective efforts as a band – the lyrics are just one facet of what makes the record what it is. We hope that if nothing else, the music and “message” are open-ended enough that listeners can affect their own meaning.
Decorated with the stunning art by Kevin Nock, the record is available now via Zegema Beach Records, Dingleberry Records, Arkan Records, R.I.P. In Peace Records & Dead Punx Records.
A stunning debut 12″LP, Toronto Ontario’s SARIN have been releasing EPs since 2012 and playing with the likes of Poison The Well. Continually evolving, this record showcases Oceanic-era Isis as a primary inspiration, but branching out with eclectic clean vocals, more technicality and increased keyboard usage. The stunning 12″ is on blue wax, was engineered and mixed by Alex Gamble, mastered by Brad Boatright, and is the epitome of post-hardcore/post-metal. This is a corelease between Zegema Beach Records, Dingleberry Records, Arkan Records, R.I.P. In Peace Records & Dead Punx Records.
SARIN live dates:
08/11 Toronto, ON – Coalition / with Yeti on Horseback, Hunter Gatherer, Ischemic
08/12 Owen Sound, ON – H2O Lounge (Slimer Fest) / with Sinner, Guiltfeeder, Cruel Bloom and more
