Imagine an album that whisks you away to the tranquil yet turbulent shores of Ireland, where heavy black metal meets serene, ocean-inspired melodies – that's the captivating essence of Timeworn by Atlantic! This debut from Callan Hoy, hailing from the picturesque western coastal town of Galway, perfectly embodies my mental picture of Ireland as a remote yet soothing haven by the sea. And this is where it gets intriguing – the setting isn't just a vibe; it's woven into the very fabric of the music, with crashing waves kicking off and concluding the album, while surfacing repeatedly to evoke the sensation of recording right along the Atlantic coastline. Despite the high-energy black metal elements, a remarkable calm prevails, transforming Timeworn into an enchanting melodic voyage that begs for endless replays.
But here's where it gets controversial – Atlantic masterfully weaves together atmospheric post-black metal and a surprisingly poppy form of black rock, challenging traditional genre boundaries in a way that might divide fans. For beginners dipping their toes into metal, post-black metal blends the raw intensity of black metal with atmospheric elements, often incorporating influences from shoegaze or post-rock to create dreamy, expansive soundscapes. The album's three extended tracks lean heavily into this atmospheric side ('Weathered,' 'Underside,' 'Spirit Trails'), but instead of the brooding, depressive variety, they radiate an uplifting energy that's refreshingly positive. Hoy's guitar work exudes those warm, feel-good tones reminiscent of Countless Skies, layered with plenty of blackened reverb to add that signature edge. These longer compositions share DNA with the emotive black metal of Starer and the hypnotic black/shoegaze fusion of Deafheaven – think swirling guitars, ethereal builds, and a sense of soaring freedom that feels like gazing at vast horizons.
On the flip side, the shorter tracks ('Timeworn,' 'Voyages') pivot to a pop/rock-inspired style, infused with heavy reverb and dark, growling vocals that give them a unique twist. There's an undeniable joy in the instrumentation that echoes the catchy, groove-driven energy of Torche's Harmonicraft – a band known for blending metal riffs with melodic, almost rock-infused hooks. Drummer Milan Jejina amplifies this pop sensibility with straightforward yet impactful beats that have you nodding along instinctively. The synergy of these rhythms and infectious riffs makes 'Voyages' stand out as one of the year's most unforgettable tunes, proving that metal doesn't have to be all gloom and doom to leave a lasting impression.
And this is the part most people miss – the sheer craftsmanship in the performances elevates Timeworn beyond mere listening. Hoy employs tremolos – those rapid, fluttering guitar techniques that create a sense of perpetual motion – to infuse the album with kinetic energy. For those new to the term, tremolos are like the heartbeat of the music, adding a jubilant rhythm that keeps things lively. But what truly shines is how Hoy artfully merges these melodies with atmospheric layers, preventing the longer passages, such as those in 'Spirit Trails,' from dragging. The result? Every moment feels engaging and purposeful. Vocally, Hoy delivers guttural growls that avoid the ear-piercing screamo flair of some shoegaze acts, opting instead for a melodic flow that fills the space with satisfying, hook-laden sounds. While clean vocals are sparingly used, they beautifully complement the growls on 'Underside,' showcasing Hoy's versatility as an artist who can navigate multiple styles with ease.
Timeworn stands as a remarkable feat, showcasing a burgeoning talent with formidable songwriting prowess. Even though most tracks exceed seven minutes, they never wander aimlessly or grow tedious – a testament to Hoy's skillful pacing. By interspersed shorter, more upbeat pieces, he crafts a dynamic listening experience that's both varied and forceful. I was absolutely floored when this gem popped up in my Bandcamp recommendations back in April; Hoy has crafted something extraordinary that could resonate even with listeners who typically shy away from atmospheric or post-black metal. Clocking in at a compact 34 minutes, it's an accessible entry point with no excuse not to dive in – and once it hooks you, it'll draw you back like a siren's call to unsuspecting mariners. Rest assured, there's no peril here, just delightful tunes that burrow into your brain.
Tracks to Check Out: 'Underside,' 'Voyages,' 'Spirit Trails'
What do you think – does blending pop elements into black metal enhance or dilute the genre's raw power? Is Timeworn's uplifting vibe a breath of fresh air, or does it stray too far from black metal's traditionally dark roots? Share your thoughts in the comments; I'd love to hear agreements, disagreements, or even your own interpretations!
