INTRONAUT - Void

INTRONAUT
Void
Goodfellow Records
9/10





It’s rare that a group can think outside of the box, yet still impress as being interesting from a standpoint of pure entertainment. Intronaut achieves this feat and so much more with their richly engaging Goodfellow record “Void.” Over the course of the album, the foursome utilize the technical insight and ability of mid-career Voivod, while incorporating a darker, more sinister undertone that causes the band’s final product to be curiously foreboding.

Individual musicianship is a focal point during tracks such as “Gleamer” and “Iceblocks” and that adept musical skill extends into every other song on the record as well. Small nuances such as the smooth, progressive-sounding introduction of “Nostalgic Echo” recall the fluidity of Rush, but when the group kicks in with an abrasive, monolithic ambience, it finds the perfect marriage of harshness and substance. On the whole, this particular cut features some of the most thoughtful songwriting you’ll hear on “Void.”

Despite the band’s skill at rattling off bizarre tempo fluctuations and abstract scales, Intronaut can convincingly hold down a groove as well. This is likely the single most positive attribute to be found in the digits of “Void,” at no time does the band’s musicianship get in the way of solid songwriting.

With a seemingly endless queue of superb metal releases demanding the attention of listeners as of late, it’s difficult for many fans to know where start. “Void” is an excellent place to do so, as Intronaut prove themselves to be amongst the most skilled songwriters around and doubtlessly have the chops to back it up. All talk of gems and breakthroughs aside, this is an album that deserves and also demands serious consideration.

Written By: Goblin Queen