While it’s usually the case that the world of post-metal finds itself criminally under-represented for one reason or another, I’m pretty confident in saying that 2022 has been a flagship year for the style. Thanks to big names like Cult of Luna the style was never far from the general consciousness of listeners everywhere, but it really does feel as though there was a wave that took place that brought all sorts of new talent to the sound that constantly kept things interesting and always moving forward. With its debut album, Codespeaker embodies that sentiment more than perfectly with all that was brought forth in this eponymous record the excellence post-metal always needs more of.
Despite how straightforward the style can be in many instances and the massive amounts of potential that’s to be had should a band simply commit themselves to the craft, post-metal is one of those styles that has always seemed more of an enhancer to another sound rather than being something that often stands firmly on its own. There are always exceptions, however, and Codespeaker immediately sets itself apart as a band that doesn’t just fit the bill for a vastly interesting work of the sound, but one that demands respect out of the gate. With this only being the band’s debut effort, it’s a true marvel to behold in damn near every way with the power, atmospheres, and simple cohesiveness of all that Codespeaker brings to the table pulled right out of the very manual for making a great work of post-metal with every step taken done in exemplary fashion. From a tremendous sense of power that is nigh on compelling to an evocative drive that really pulls the listener in ever-deeper into a whirlwind that is the very essence of what we should come to expect when post-metal is given the respect and dedication that it rightfully deserves with there being but one final truth by the time this album draws to a close: Codespeaker knows precisely what they’re doing with it already a mesmerizing craft the likes of which are not to be ignored.
Given how this year has been for the style, any release on this level is to be celebrated for all that it accomplishes in every form, but there is something special with what Codespeaker has crafted here. Everything about it brings together the best of what the sound has always been about, and in a year where the style has seen intense competition alongside larger than life talent, Codespeaker stands out undeniably.
LISTEN to “Codespeaker” on Bandcamp here.
LIKE Codespeaker on Facebook here.
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