One of the aspects of metal that we generally forget about is the atmosphere and dynamics. So much of it is loud and angry that we often need reminding that emotions of a wider variety can be covered in the genre. Post-metal bands generally play with dynamics, as well and not shying away from beautiful, clean guitars to contrast the sludgy riffs that make up a large percentage of the sound. Essentially, quiet music landscapes are not alien to the genre, with many a metalhead enjoying the more atmospheric offerings of music as a whole.
A Dead Forest Index are one of those bands that clearly have plenty to offer to the metal community outside of the genre. While it’s not easy to pinpoint what genre the band is, their music is a blend of easily accessible, soothing melodies and progressions reminiscent of the softer-aspects of France’s famed Alcest. The New Zealand brother duo previously released their EP Antique in 2012, but have just released In All That Drifts from Summit Down. To call it anything less than excellent would be underestimating it, as it has been on repeat all weekend for myself.
Vocalist Adam Sherry is fully aware of what each song calls for, and between his dynamic-heavy guitar playing and soothing voice, (“No Paths” comes to mind, in particular) it gives way for the percussion to also breathe on each of the songs. Sam Sherry’s drumming compliments his brother’s guitar and vocal abilities, in that each aspect of the music is heightened or decreased when necessary. Sam, personally, shines on “Ringing Sidereal,” as his drumming takes on a controlled King Crimson style of fills, all the while keeping with the low dynamic of the song. It becomes obvious that A Dead Forest Index’s strength is that each song is finely tuned, ensuring that nothing becomes excessive or forced through the album. “Cast of Lines,” for example, focuses more on the vocals and harmonies, with the drums being absent and the guitars eventually fading out. Most bands make a conscious effort to include as much as they can in each song, but A Dead Forest Index show restraint and awareness when crafting an album.
Opposites should attract for metal fans in this situation, as A Dead Forest Index shows promise in the atmospheres that each song carries. It also helps that each song has its own hook and identity, making it easier for just about anyone to enjoy the album. In All That Drifts is available for purchase on their Bandcamp page, as well as physically on tour at their remaining dates with Chelsea Wolfe in North America.
[youtube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XQI8AdmnFhQ[/youtube]
