It might only have been two years since Isaurian’s Deep Sleep Metaphysics, but it certainly feels longer. Between this and their excellent 2020 release, Chains of Blue, they’ve proven to be reliable for well-rounded, emotive, and post-y doomgaze. Nothing really scratches my itch for something dark, beautiful, and crushing-yet-uplifting quite like Isaurian, so I’m very psyched their followup, The Pulsing Rush, is just around the corner (out October 25). Based on what I’ve heard so far, it’s going to get some heavy autumnal rotation; which makes it fitting that we have the privilege of sharing their new single, “Carved Earth,” with you today.
“Carved Earth” showcases everything I like about this band. There’s a subtle confidence that threads throughout the track from the solitary, tension-building guitar open, to the superbly arranged and layered vocals, right up to the texture-heavy climax that balances so many different elements and still maintains a sense of calm. “Carved Earth” is also a masterclass in creating something heavy that’s not full-bore distortion, screaming, and volume. While those moments certainly exist here (and damn, they hit), Isaurian are more attuned to a post-rock philosophy: developing distinctive atmospheres, establishing contrast, and setting up listeners for payoffs. This said, I've yet to come across anyone in the metal (or post-rock) realm that quite captures these dreamlike and surreal moments quite like Isaurian, and I’m still not sure I can really pinpoint why. Is it the sedate, disarming tempo? The warm and often soothing touch of the vocals? The delicate acoustic guitars and keys? The seamless transitions that swiftly move listeners along? It all just feels kind of magical in their hands, and it all dials up the intensity of their more overtly/traditionally heavy moments. Frankly, it just never gets old.
The Pulsing Rush by Isaurian
Produced and mixed by Jesse Gander (Brutus, Anciients, Japandroids), it sounds like Isaurian have found a perfect complement for their talents on The Pulsing Rush. For an act this emotive and moving, it’s nice to hear that their sonic weight is given similar attention—without neglecting all the richness and complexity they have to offer.
Pre-order The Pulsing Rush on Bandcamp ahead of its release on October 25.
