Wells Valley are a Portuguese Post-Metal band. This is their second album.
Following up 2015’s Matter as Regent and 2017’s The Orphic, Wells Valley have produced 49 minutes of new music for us to enjoy. The band sound more cohesive and developed than ever on their new release.
With a sound that combines elements of doom, post-metal, and sludge, alongside elements of psychedelia and black metal, (the latter of which seems to have increased in places), Reconcile the Antinomy is a satisfying trip into blackened post-metal/doom waters. This is the band’s most wide-ranging and expansive work yet, however, with their songwriting both streamlined and more inclusive of other styles. The latter elements have been incorporated skilfully into their sound, allowing Wells Valley to flesh out the core of their music into something full-bodied and wholesome, albeit of a dark, menacing variety.
These new songs showcase Wells Valley’s increasingly polished and professional approach to heavy music. The music is atmospheric and immersive, while also being harsh and abrasive when necessary. The balance between heavy aggression and haunting atmosphere is well-judged, with some aspects of the songs veering more towards one or the other, depending on the creative whims of the band.
The Orphic demonstrated a band that were ready to take the strengths from their debut album and forge ahead with confidence and skill. Reconcile the Antimony is the fulfilment of the promise previously shown, and is a very enjoyable experience. Wells Valley seem to have really grown into their style, and on Reconcile the Antinomy they sound more like themselves than ever.
Very highly recommended.