This is the fourth album from US post-metal band Wrvth.
Previously known as Wrath of Vesuvius, they rebranded as Wrvth with 2015’s self-titled album, and delivered a feast of post-metal/death metal for us to enjoy, and enjoy we did.
No Rising Sun continues the band’s transition into post-metal waters, leaving their earlier death metal/deathcore stylings behind for a more expansive, expressive sound. They first started incorporating this into their music on 2015’s Wrvth, but now, four years later, the band have fully-realised and fleshed out their new sound.
On No Rising Sun Wrvth mix post-metal with progressive and technical elements, and there’s also a post-hardcore and post-black metal feel to parts of the songs. Wrvth have improved their songwriting and delivery on No Rising Sun, and the entire thing flows and fits together better than previously. In exploring their new sound they have become masters of it.
Embracing a post-metal resplendence in the melodies, these songs are vibrant and emotive in nature. The music is a multifaceted beast, at home raging with jagged intensity as well as calmly taking introspective stock. This album does very well to embody whatever it attempts to portray, be that a chaotic storm of aggression, or an atmospheric soundscape of serene contemplation. All the while the vocalist’s snarled blackened screams act as a vicious accompaniment or counterpoint to whatever any particular part of any particular song is doing.
Wrvth have managed to metamorphose into an individual and enticing proposition, and have managed to carve a niche for themselves in the crowded post-metal landscape. Unfortunately, however, having achieved this rare feat, it seems the band are disbanding. This is a huge shame, but at least they are going out having accomplished what many bands will not, and having also produced their best work in No Rising Sun.
An essential listen for fans of atypical, absorbing post-metal.