Matador are a post-metal band from the UK and this is their third album.
Matador play a compelling mix of post-metal, doom, sludge, and post-rock. That’s a lot of tags, but the music brings them together quite seamlessly. Above, Below, and So contains 42 minutes of material, and it’s a record that is worth spending some time with if those sorts of styles speak to you.
Matador’s music is richly atmospheric, while also carrying with it an earthy doom vibe. It’s almost as if a doom metal band has transformed into an expansive post-metal band, resulting in something that has a rare flavour less encountered. Matador bridge a gap between styles that most bands aren’t even interested in, let alone have the ability to connect. And, that’s even before you factor in everything else that’s gone into the making of this record. This is to Matador’s strength, as this mix of styles allows Above, Below, and So to stand out in a crowded scene.
Of course, it’s not the only reason this stands out, otherwise it would be a mere curiosity, nothing more. Thankfully, it is more than that. Matador know how to pen a good tune, and also know how to balance their influences. The songs blend together huge doom metal riffs with resplendent post-metal atmospheric sophistication nicely. It’s a mood-first record, but doesn’t shy away from hooks or memorability.
Above, Below, and So has a firm foundation of crushing metallic weight and world-weary heaviness, yet it also has an epic streak and psychedelic proclivities that shine through. There’s a delicacy that manifests in places, an appreciation that not everything needs a big riff, at least not all of the time. This comes from a post-rock influence that can be felt more keenly in some places than in others, helping to fill the album with diversity and range.
Above, Below, and So is a record that takes time to truly do its work, but it does it well and meticulously if you let it. Matador have many obvious assets, yet this is music that benefits from having the time to breathe and spread out. The album is layered with emotive colour and awash with atmospheric depth. Matador’s new record is well-crafted and very enjoyable.
Very highly recommended for those that like the sound of a band that shares DNA with a range of acts, such as Cult of Luna, Idle Heirs, Mammoth Storm, Psychonaut, Sunnata, Ufomammut, We Lost the Sea, Witch Ripper, and more.
Wonderbox Metal 