Bridging the classic with the contemporary, the Illinois outfit’s sophomore release is vetted by our own champion of discovery, Cori Westbrook.
Illinois-based Extinguish the Sun is a highly emotive alternative metal band that pulls from a variety of influences, from Scandinavian melodics, to 1980s riffage, to more 2000s influenced vocals. “Transformations” is rife with driving rhythm work and an almost psychedelic approach to the atmosphere.
Album opener “Sold” starts off highly melodic, before dropping into a progressive breakdown that levels up the intricacy. Heavy hitting drum work and thundering bass lines and almost nu metal flair add extra dimension as the album pushes forward. “Veganomics” brings an element of punk swing to the beat and “Marooned”, the longest song on the album, clocking at over 8 minutes, veers into sludge. All-in-all, this album will take you on a roller coaster ride of twists, turns and genre mashups.
Vocalist Jeremy Miller has a distinctive croon, but can easily switch to more aggressive growls. “Improvise, Adapt, Overcome” is one of the standout tracks on the album, fit for smashing things. “Planet Nowhere” brings back the punk vibes for a furious 2 and a half minutes.
This album is one that is neither in a hurry to tell its story, nor does it overstay its welcome. Extinguish the Sun know exactly the journey they want to take you on, and they do so fully, showing the full breadth of their influences.
“Transformations” marks the 2nd full-length from the band and was released on June 17th. You can get your copy HERE.
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