Long-running artists tend to follow two trajectories: crash-out or cliché. With the former, you can almost give them credit for trying new angles to their craft, even if they have no idea what they’re doing. I can respect that persistence, but only to a certain extent. After a while, the band needs to recognize its limitations. With the latter, you grow weary of the group churning out soundalike music that simply reminds you of the past. Sure, you can recognize that they simply like playing together after all these years, but they’ve also turned into their own cover band.
And then we have acts like Russian Circles.
Since 2004, this talented trio has been cranking out some of the best instrumental post-metal imaginable. Occupying the curious intersection of Sumac, Isis, and Neurosis – but without any vocals – they deliver powerful music with melodic verve and keen attention to detail. Instead of shutting up and playing the hits or going off in an obtuse genre direction, the group opts for honing their skills. Each new album remains unmistakably “Russian Circles,” but they never sit back on their laurels, and their fans love them for it.
Aptly named Nine, the band’s ninth album is an exercise in perfecting a trusted style, instead of reinventing a wheel that’s also lost its tread. The guitar work of Mike Sullivan remains as heavy yet pristine as it’s always been, complete with remarkable tone and definition. Brian Cook’s bass lines provide a thick, robust edge, while his synths offer up heaps of glowering and gothy darkwave energy. As always, Dave Turncrantz on drums conjures up a fantastic fusion of proggy syncopation, metal intensity, and post-rock flair. Released on Sargent House, the record has a huge sound with tremendous voicing, headbanging goodness, and sonic clarity.
A spectacular track order anchors this cohesive album.
“Borehole” opens things up with the most traditional rock formatting, complete with big breakdowns and crackling distortion. The intensity jumps up a few notches on “Empath, a breakneck bruiser perfect for furious pits and fists thrust in the air. On “Eluvial,” the band provides a stirring opus that begins with swirling synth pads before descending into a determined andante overflowing with passionate perseverance and symphonic sincerity. “Seventh Seal” brings the album to a searing conclusion, as a once-galloping rhythm gradually reduces to a slow and sinister crawl.
Nine delivers refined techniques and superb shredding while still rocking hard and avoiding cheese. That is the overarching brilliance of Russian Circles: You know exactly what you’re going to get, but the band continually surprises you with its penchant for exciting grooves and well-crafted climaxes. Their sonic palate is never too sludgy or clean, neither ponderous nor pristine, not stoner or speed. They balance the professional sharpness that comes from years of constant touring with the enduring heart that comes from loving what they do. This approach honors their long-term fans and helps them to attract new ones.
You don’t have to burn out or fade away. You can actually keep making wonderful music on your own terms simply by respecting yourself and your art.