By Josh Bicknell
Hailing from Rauma, Finland, Split Iris have rapidly made a name for themselves with their exciting new blend of Djent and modern metal. Brimming with intricate guitar riffs, and explosive vocal performances, fans of the genre will surely be delighted with what ‘Bloodred Dusk’ has to offer. Moreover, the record tells a compelling story exploring themes such as the loss, and rediscovery of hope, demonstrating that the quintet can craft narratives as captivating as their instrumentals.
The opening track, ‘The Purge’, immediately creates tension with a barrage of technical riffs that are typical of Djent and modern metal. Aleksi’s vocals only increase the intensity as he delivers a variety of medium- to low-pitched screams, showcasing his impressive range. Split Iris balances such a ferocious opening with a melodic chorus, revealing that Aleksi can sing just as well as he can scream, and the more relaxed guitar work pulls Haavisto’s drumming to the centre of the mix. As the track progresses, the proficiency of each musician becomes increasingly clear, culminating in the first of many immense soundscapes found throughout the record.
As we transition between tracks one and two, we are met with a striking tonal shift. The guitarwork in ‘The Veil’ immediately feels slower and more deliberate, which when coupled with Aleksi’s more aggressive vocal delivery, establishes a nail-biting atmosphere. Split Iris maintains this dark ambiance throughout track three as they continue to slow their rhythm and dial up the distortion.
However, what truly makes ‘No Fear’ an outstanding song is its sombre chorus that acts as a palate cleanser to the relentless track four. ‘Defiled’ is instantly captivating thanks to Aleksi’s visceral opening screams, but what is most unique about the song is its crushing breakdowns. Listeners are treated to several swift, technically impressive riffs alongside the usual series of decelerated guitar chuggs. ‘Bloodred Dusk’s fourth entry is sure to keep moshers happy for years to come.
Approaching the midpoint of the album ‘Drown’ acts as both an interlude and the opening to ‘Guilt.’ In this regard, it is successful, as the stripped-back instrumental emphasises how Split Iris can write stories that are just as compelling as their riffs. That being said, ‘Drown’ is essentially the shadow cast by the looming giant that is ‘Guilt.’ Opening with a sequence of low Thall-like string bends and quickly developing into what is arguably the most epic soundscape of the album, track six is far and away my favourite song on the record. I especially enjoyed how its final devastating breakdown gradually dissipates, clearly separating it from the energetic opening to ‘Oath.’
Stretching almost ten minutes, the titular ‘Bloodred Dusk’ can only be described as a sonic journey. Split Iris draws upon their entire discography, pulling together a range of vocal and instrumental techniques to create something that feels truly special. Yet the five piece still leave room for innovation in the album’s closer, ‘Flood,’ with fans receiving what can only be described as a progressive ballad, layered atop an elegant piano composition. A fitting way to bring an end to an already diverse and experimental album.
With their latest record, Split Iris have cemented themselves as one of Finland’s most exciting, up-and-coming modern metal outfits. The five piece masterfully balance innovation and experimentation with listenability, while simultaneously interweaving complex, meaningful motifs throughout their lyrics.
‘Bloodred Dusk’ is an outstanding concept album that I encourage fans of progressive, heavy music to set aside some time to listen to.
- ‘Bloodred Dusk‘ is released next Friday (28 June).
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