In the present day and age, Australian heavy music never fails to impress. Or deliver. Or to blow minds. And on June 2nd, 2014, a new chapter opens. This legendary, Perth based outfit have been plying their world class trade since the late nineties, and this is their fifth album. Whilst certainly a big fan of their previous work, nothing could have prepared me for the musical wonder that is V.
Talk about a band with an absolute grasp of their craft, it’s like all of their previous releases were leading up to this moment in time. The planets have aligned for Voyager on this record, and they have created their masterwork. The songs are beautifully crafted pieces of melodic, progressive metal works of art. Set up beautifully by opener, and second single ‘Hyperventilating’.
The slightly more direct, immediate first single ‘Breaking Down’ follows, then the magnificent ‘A Beautiful Mistake’, which features the majestic guest vocals of Zemyna Kuliukas. The female vocal sections of this song put one in mind of the collaborations between Devin Townsend and Anneke Van Giersbergen on several of the former’s recent albums. And as an overwhelmingly massive fan of the great Hevy Devy, this is high praise indeed.
An unbelievably strong opening, which in the hands of a less consistent band may have been a problem, may have been rather difficult to better. But not these guys. The album fairly goes from strength to strength. Driving choruses cascade into sublime, uplifting choruses. Beautifully constructed and delivered melodies abound, juxtaposed against riveting metal riffs and grooves. Sweet touches of electronica provide yet further colour to the mix. Moments of pounding percussive muscle. Musicianship and production values of an untouchable kind.
It’s obvious that much care and attention have been given to the writing and recording of this album, it’s hit a real sweet spot. And what comes across is irresistible, heady stuff. The only issue I see here is how they’re going to top this on their next release, the bar has been set at Everestian levels on V. Maybe that’s not even the point. Whatever the case, I have great confidence in them.
International attention has certainly come their way with their previous few releases, however, if there is any justice in the musical world (which, alas and alack, there often isn’t), this should be release that confirms these guys as one of the premiere melodic/progressive heavy acts on the planet. Here’s hoping.
9/10
Reviewer: Rod Whitfield