NORTHLANE - MESMER

I think Northlane may have exploded the internet   when they dropped Mesmer seemingly out of nowhere, I had heard rumours circulating for a few days before the drop but I can't say I was really expecting it. Releasing an album in this way, does have risks; it could mean that the album won't do so well in the charts and that it won't be covered as much by the media but Northlane said that this is their way of giving back to fans, by making the album available instantly and that no amount of awards or #1 spots in the chart could compare to the feeling they get by connecting with their fan base. Northlane released the singles 'Intuition' and 'Citizen' in the months before the album release, which both give us an impressive taster of what Mesmer is all about. I am a big fan of both of these singles, and although quite a few people on social media seem to have a different opinion on the 'new sound' that Northlane have taken on since the departure of vocalist Adrian, I think the band are going in a direction that not only really suits them but attracts a lot of new fans too.

The overall sound of the album doesn't differ much to their previous release Node, which definitely isn't a bad thing. Northlane seem to have adopted quite an electronic vibe, but we still get substantial breakdowns mixed with stunning cleans and astounding instrumentals. Marcus certainly knows how to use that voice to its best potential. A song that stands out most for me is Paragon, this song was written as a tribute to Tom Searle from Architects who passed away six months ago after losing his battle with cancer. Most of the lyrics in the song are actually Architects references which is a pretty surreal thing to hear when you're a big Architects fan like myself. Northlane state that Architects have always been one of their biggest influences, and this song really emphasises their relationship. Another song that I find myself going back to time and time again is Fade. I really like the structure of the song, it starts off with a grungy sounding bouncy melody which draws you in, and it has a really atmospheric vibe throughout. This song is slightly more relaxed than other songs on the album, and Marcus's cleans really stand out for me during this track.

I am really impressed by this album, and I think it is another strong release from Northlane that deserves just as much publicity as it would have gotten had it been released traditionally. Northlane seem to have found their feet and found a style that they are extremely confident with. When compared to older albums like Singularity there is a drastic change in their sound but I think any changes have been positive steps in helping the band to reach the prime position they are in today. I definately reccomend picking up this album and supporting the boys in Northlane, give this album the recognition it deserves!

Rating: 9/10
Favourite Tracks: Paragon, Fade, Solar
For Fans Of: Architects, In Hearts Wake