And then there was one – well, almost. Originally splintering off from The Postman Syndrome/Day Without Dawn/Biclops conglomerate East Of The Wall have finally come full circle, absorbing their progenitors and taking the throne as the primary band. Of course, that’s not to say members of East Of The Wall aren’t currently involved in a litany of other projects. But for now, the confusion and boundless mutations look to have ceased, lineup wise at least.
Musically though the sonic expansion continues. Beginning as an instrumentally driven affair, vocals have slowly crept into East Of The Wall‘s craft over the years. But with “Ressentiment” they are most certainly here to stay. Such polarizing changes are to be expected with the addition of extra members and the band do deserve a pat on the back for taking the time to include a few instrumental numbers that pay homage to their roots.
Those familiar with the groups back catalogue are already well aware of their delicate mixture of complex hopeful melodies and animalistically harsh bellows. But those same people may be a bit surprised by the beefed up malevolence and overall heavier approach showcased here. This direction, along with more focused songwriting, definitely anchors the band in a polarizing way.
On one hand the group now possess a slightly more twisted commercial appeal, but on the other some of the risks and colorful expressionism that previously gave levity are lost in the transition. There was a time in the past where an off-color ditty like “It’s Always Worth While Speaking To A Clever Man” would serve as the verse or chorus for a track. But these days it feels more like an ugly duckling relegated to segue status.
With maturity and additional members comes sacrifice, but to some, such steadfastness will likely be disappointing in places. That’s not to say “Ressentiment” doesn’t present a colorful and highly enjoyable listen rife with organically inflected proggy metallic goodness. But its lessened dynamics and generally hostile temperament may leave a few fans of the group and its previous incarnations a little sentimental for days past.
