American side project hits......nothing.
The Esoteric are a good representation of the genre experimentation many American bands have recently been meddling with. Made from members of bands all over the musical spectrum such as keyboard rockers Reggie and the Full Effects, hardcore heroes Coalesce and the insanely fast grind band Today Is the Day. Since the band forming almost 10 years ago, The Esoteric have embarked on 5 self-financed US tours and have shared stages with the likes of AFI, Converge and The Dillinger Escape Plan. From this alone, it is easy to acknowledge that the Esoteric have the musical experience and knowledge to safely indulge in this musical experiment without it resulting in too much of an ear-crippling blunder.
The quintet's latest release on Prosthetic Records 'With the Sureness Of Sleepwalking' is by far their best release to date. Producer Ed Rose has certainly captured the band at their best and has given the guitar tones a sharpness that really digs for your attention. The album perspires with energy throughout the whole 13 tracks, not once losing momentum, even in the breakdowns.
The musicianship of the Esoteric is certainly what you'd expect, something from such an experienced band. Similar to bands such as Stories and Comets, the band aren't afraid to meddle with unconventional time signatures and awkward syncopated rhythms. Some songs that present this experimental attitude exceptionally well are 'Ram Faced Boy' and 'Mapping the Fall'. Not only did these songs show such musical compatibility, it emphasizes the great guitar work between Cory White and Eric Graves.
Some bad points also derive from this release as well as those good. Through trying to create something so original, the lads from the USA have created something that those with the perfect pitch will not be able to cope with. Many listeners will find the Esoteric's release unbearable and if not a little on the extreme side of music. Possibly touching more towards metal/noise genre rather than punk/hardcore side.
Overall I find this CD nothing particualry amazing. There is the odd breakdown which suggests great thought from each musician in the band but nothing really stands out. The band are playing something that is quite extra-ordinary but their big release has come a little too late. Too many bands are doing what they are doing and although they are talented it's just the same as everything else experimental.