CD reviews: Sunken Seas

The sophomore album from Auckland-based Sunken Seas is a bristling, brooding nine-track offering that continues the heavy momentum of 2013 EP Cataclysm, as well as the more spacious approach of 2012 debut Null Hour (nominated for the 2013 Taite Prize).

Despite an almost claustrophobic soundscape akin to being lost in the doldrums (the title of closing track No Way Through The Fog is rather fitting), there are moments of widescreen respite in the form of Scarlet and Alt Figure before the waves of gloom roll in again.

Powerful, sombre, and possibly the quickest way to end a party.

• Sunken Seas. Glass. Independent.

• Three stars (out of five)

Single download: Crane of Foil
For those who like: Mogwai, Radiohead

- Shane Gilchrist