Moanaa – Torches (Review)

Moanaa are a Polish post-metal band, and this is their latest EP.

Both 2014’s Descent and 2016’s Passage made great impressions, so when a new 26-minute EP appeared, it was a time of rejoicing. This EP contains three tracks – two original cuts and a Placebo cover, the latter of which features a guest vocalist.

Inflexion starts us off with a mixture of harsh heaviness alternated with atmospheric sections, and bolstered by strong melodies. It’s a solid song that sticks to its post-metal roots; another good addition to the Moanaa compendium.

Without You I’m Nothing is next, originally by Placebo. The guest clean vocals are well-performed, and both the vocals and the interpretation of the song as a whole fit into Moanaa’s musical aesthetic. The band make the song their own, and it’s an enjoyable way to spend six minutes.

The EP ends with its crowning moment, the epic Red, which lasts longer than the other two tracks combined, with a duration of almost 13 minutes. Expansive and immersive, this track draws you in and keeps you there, with atmospheric appeal and some crushing riffs. Showing off many facets of Moanaa’s multifaceted approach to music, Red is the real reason to visit this EP for an extended vacation.

A quality release from Moanaa. I look forward to whatever they do next.