Album Review: Final Coil – The World We Inherited (Sliptrick Records)

Long-awaited and much-anticipated, Final Coil’s The World We Inherited represents the crowning glory of a triptych of records begun with their vibrant debut Persistence of Memory and continued with the highly critically acclaimed The World We Left Behind for Others. It will be released on January 16th, 2024, via Sliptrick Records.

The trail of impressive releases that Final Coil have given us is long and storied, yet it all feels like it has been building to this. Arguably their most creative and powerful work to date, and one that showcases the brilliance of their genre-bending ways. With this album, Final Coil turn their attention to the future, or the lack of one, if we don’t change our ways.

This chilling reality is front and centre in unflinching fashion with the dramatic melody of the title track. Yet, it is when this track’s textures begin to ripple and expand that Final Coil’s brilliance is fully realised. The vocals, in particular, are so powerful here.

It’s one hell of a grand start, but Final Coil are on unbelievable form, so it only gets better from here on. First, with the grungy post-rock groove of Wires, where Final Coil unleash a torrent of heavy power, then with the chuggy chunkiness of Chemtrails, where Final Coil show just how heavy they can be. A side of the band that never fails to impress.

Featuring haunting and starry tones, progressive sensibilities, and no small amount of burgeoning heavy rock noise, By Starlight is a big effort. Though it is immediately challenged by the darker and dingier post-vibes of The Growing Shadows. A track to make you feel that little more uncomfortable, but also inspired. After all, they are a band that exemplify the word ‘fresh’ when it comes to genre limitations.

No further proof needed then the industrial-driven and highly atmospheric Stay with Me. Arguably the most challenging track of the album, even if it is as fascinating as ever.

There is a slowing of momentum here admittedly, as Purify keeps things in a slower and darker place, but it’s still too enjoyable to sound like a valid complaint. Especially as the instrumental kick of Out of Sorts gets the blood pumping nicely. Then there is Humanity and End of History, which find Final Coil delivering two of their best efforts on this album.

Two tracks that cross musical spectrums and create mind-blowing soundscapes that captivate and entertain. Harmonious and heavy music that caps off a wonderful experience. Final Coil have outdone themselves and proven emphatically why they are so well-loved and respected.

Final Coil – The World We Inherited Track Listing:

1. The World We Inherited
2. Wires
3. Chemtrails
4. By Starlight
5. The Growing Shadows
6. Stay With Me
7. Purify
8. Out Of Sorts
9. Humanity
10. End Of History

Links

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