95. Neurosis - Through Silver In Blood (1996)
1. Through Silver in Blood
2. Rehumanize
3. Eye
4. Purify
5. Locust Star
6. Strength of Fates
7. Become the Ocean
8. Aeon
9. Enclosure in Flame
Finally my first metal review!!!
Through Silver in Blood is one of the very earliest examples of the emerging “Post-Metal” or “Metal-Gaze” genre. Not only that, it begins to mark the departure from Neurosis’ previous sounds, going for more of an atmospheric and eccentric style not found on their earlier work. Through Silver in Blood is also their highest regarded albums and easily one of the finest crafted metal albums of the ‘90’s.
Scott Kelly and Steve Von Till do a great job playing off each other, adding to the other’s tone with their own undertone and overall creating a real sense of teamwork. They really worked hard defining themselves over the years, starting off as a hardcore punk band and slowly evolving into one of the progenitors of an entire genre.
One of the trademarks of the genre is the increased length of the album, so it’s not the type of album you put on and intently listen to for every minute. Clocking in at around 72 minutes, it’s an album that sets an ambience, yet can instantly suck you back in with a scream or balls tightingly guitar riff.
Post-Metal albums can be kind of hard to critique just because of their designation. Much like with Trip-Hop they’re designed to be a kind of background piece, enjoyable, but not requiring your full attention. Neurosis made a bold effort on this album in kick-starting the genre, but as you will find in later reviews, some of the newer bands have done a far better job refining it so it becomes more than just background music.