Deafheaven – Infinite Granite
Deafheaven round off some of their metallic edges on their new album Infinite Granite, and prove that you don't have to shout loud to hit hard
Deafheaven have always been an odd paradox. On paper, they're too shoegaze for the metalheads, too heavy for indie kids, and yet they've managed to carve quite a respectable niche for themselves over the past decade. On the San Franciscans' fifth album Infinite Granite, however, Deafheaven have leaned more into their atmospheric side, following a similar trajectory to punk contemporaries Title Fight, favouring softer tones and catchier melodies.
Lead vocalist George Clarke has largely jettisoned his trademark scream, savouring it only for the album's most dramatic moments, along with drummer Daniel Tracy's thrashy blast-beats, bar closing track Mombasa. Infinite Granite sees the band's metallic edges rounded off, but it still twists and turns in trademark Deafheaven fashion, exercising restraint and leading to some gorgeous moments. It's fascinating to witness a metal band take on indie-pop, but on lead single Great Mass of Color, they display their ear for captivating melody with aplomb.
While Deafheaven's change in direction isn't an unwelcome one, there isn't quite the same rush as their previous best efforts, as they adapt to their new surroundings. Minor gripes aside, Infinite Granite proves Deafheaven's mettle and shows you don't always have to shout loud to hit hard.
Listen to: Great Mass of Color, Lament For Wasps, Mombasa