Review : ISIS – “Wavering Radiant”

Isis – “Wavering Radiant”
released May 05, 2009 on Ipecac

A riff remarkably similar to “Celestial (The Tower)” opens Isis’ fifth album, and this is only where the surprises begin. Fully aware of the archetypal role they have played in the heavy music world over the last decade, they embrace the past and still find room to branch out. The group is as fertile as their namesake, now producing potent parallels to Pink Floyd with stronger keyboard presence courtesy of Clifford Meyer (especially 1, 5, & 7). The only exception is on the title track, which features Adam Jones (Tool), who also performs guitars on “Hall Of The Dead.” There are so many highlights: the percussively-driven “Ghost Key,” with a gorgeously memorable intro; the lunar strain guitars concluding “Stone To Wake A Serpent”; the abundant textures of “20 Minutes/40 Years”; plus after all this time, the cadence of Aaron Turner’s voice is still distinct. The album was masterminded by “Evil” Joe Barresi, rather than Matt Bayles, who produced most of their work. Aaron Turner designed excellent gatefold packaging as well, with thicker cardboard than I usually expect and a protective sleeve for the CD. Isis is phenomenally rewarding and we are all fortunate that they exist.

A Best of 2009 pick!

FCC OK
Try 1, 2, 5, 6

01. Hall Of The Dead
02. Ghost Key
03. Hand Of The Host
04. Wavering Radiant
05. Stone To Wake A Serpent
06. 20 Minutes / 40 Years
07. Threshold of Transformation

Rating:  

~Matt Longo