This year saw the release of Arcane Roots début album Blood and Chemistry.
At this point some people may be saying, ‘so freakin’ what?’
or ‘who the heck are Arcane Roots?’ (Editor: haha I love this guy’s attempt at
not swearing). If you find yourself asking these questions, then thank the rock
gods you stumbled across this article.
Arcane Roots use a unique blend of alternative indie and
progressive math rock to create a powerful and diverse sound. Blood and
Chemistry takes you on a mind-blowingly unpredictable journey through
face-melting riffs into sweeping ballad-like interludes and then back again.
Rarely has an album had such an impact upon me personally and I dare you not to
love it!
The trio from Surrey consists of guitarist and frontman
Andrew Groves, bassist Adam Burton and drummer Daryl Atkins. These guys really
know how to write a song that will knock your socks off! Comparisons can be
made to the likes of alt rockers Biffy Clyro and all round rock gods Muse, whom
Arcane Roots are supporting on the European leg of there world tour, but in my
opinion these guys stand in a league of their own.
The first track on Blood
and Chemistry is the aptly named ‘Energy is Never Lost, Only Redirected’.
Such a title could not be more appropriate. Arcane Roots’ epic collection is
never short of energy, and all of their boundless energy is redirected into the
ears and minds of the listener.
As the album progresses one thing becomes clear. Arcane
Roots are not afraid to push the limits of structure, incorporating many different
musical elements within the same song. Insanely complex riffs and soaring
vocals will take you to the edge of a the atmosphere before bringing you back
down earth, as the drums cut out and Andrews vocals take over with only his own
subtle guitar melody for accompaniment. This complex structure is especially
prominent within the second single released from the album, ‘Slow’, amongst
others. The intricate structure of each song is what truly defines this album.
As you progress
through Blood and Chemistry you may
start to question whether it is humanly possible for one man to play such
elaborate guitar riffs and hit vocal notes with such ease simultaneously.
However, you need only watch one of Arcane Roots’ live performances to see that
Andrew is no ordinary frontman. His incredible vocals fit seamlessly over
unbelievably complex guitar riffs, whilst Adam and Daryl keep the rhythm
section tighter than a hipster’s jeans throughout.
My personal
highlights from the albums include the crazy timing of ‘Sacred Shapes’, the
beautifully melancholy feel of the bridge in the song ‘Slow’ and the glorious
finger-tapping intro of ‘Triptych’. Arcane Roots earlier material includes
masterfully written tracks including ‘Habibity’, ‘Rouen’ and ‘In a Town of Such
Weather’ which are all also well worth a listen.
Blood and Chemistry is
Arcane Roots’ first album but I can say with certainty it will not be there
last. Supporting Muse for their European tour will only boost the profile of
this massively underrated band. Of course, time will tell, but I can only
predict big things for Arcane Roots. Big things for a band with a big sound!
Words by Mark Haldon
Have a listen...
Have a listen...
