The exhilarating post-hardcore band from North Carolina return with their fourth studio full length entitled A Place Where The Sun Is Silent released October 18, 2011 through Epitaph Records. A Place Where The Sun Is Silent is quite possibly the band's most interesting, intriguing and unique album to date. The introductory track that begins this tale, “The Dark Wood of Error”, is a eloquent and enchanting sounding piano intro featuring Shawn and a female vocalist often singing simultaneously. The next track, “A Forbidden Dance”, is the first to introduce more instruments. A Place Where the Sun Is Silent actually features many appearances of brass instruments, including horn arrangements which may be a new thing sound like they fit perfectly. The album also has a children’s choirs and guest appearances which really add to this album's sound. It’s in this complex nature that some of the listeners will find faults.
For starters, the screams sound particularly out of place on this album due to the more melodic and ambitious nature of the tracks. The voices themselves have improved, but the singing is much preferred. Also, featuring sixteen tracks and over an hour of music, A Place Where the Sun Is Silent is like a good epic tale, you must have time to really enjoy it.
With those things aside, the band have truly outdone themselves on this release or should I say this masterpiece. This album has a lot to offer old and new fans alike. Whether you love simpler times like “Vestige”, the catchier sounds like those during “The Temptress”, or the heavier sound found with “The Fiend”, there will be something for everyone to appreciate. Of course, the band shows their true virtuosity as they have taken their talent and combined all emotions into one large track which was perfectly saved for last, “And Now For the Final Illusion”. Each track is like an exploration into every emotion you can feel. A Place Where the Sun Is Silent will probably be known as the band’s best work yet, and it deserves to be recognized. Alesana have taken their music to another new level. Have a listen for yourself and hopefully you will enjoy this magnificent tale and journey!
MY VOTE:
4.5/5.0
