Album Review: Northlane - 'Discoveries'

Discoveries is the debut full length from Western Sydney heavy hitters Northlane. Having one of the strongest work ethics to be exhibited by a national band since Australia's favourite sons Parkway Drive (how many bands do you know have successfully played 25 shows in one month here, wow!) It's unsurprising they caught the eye of premier home grown label UNFD and were subsequently signed on (a strong roster consisting of Deez Nuts, I Killed the Prom Queen and Dream On, Dreamer).

The level of musicianship exhibited on the album from a young band is truly jaw dropping and testament to the drive now pushing bands in our country. Album opener Dispossession contains one of the grooviest riffs you are likely to hear this year and has a twang that could open the heavens. While it's no doubt Northlane have drawn a lot of influence from the current influx of Sumerian bands they have managed to avoid becoming another djent carbon copy which is the present hot new thing. The production on the album is as good as any international release you will come across this year, which is to be expected when metal lord Will Putney is taking care of the mixing and mastering procedure (Upon A Burning Body, Chiodos and Like Moths To Flames).

There has been a noticeable improvement in vocalist Adrian Fitipaldes ability to write and execute a clean ballad. See second track and album highlight Abrasument for a phenomenal chorus, very honest in nature and not butchered by auto tune. Instrumental track Discoveries provides some relief from the heaviness and at times is reminiscent of Misery Signals masterpiece, Worlds and Dreams.

While on the first listen it was somewhat daunting by how much was actually occurring in each song, with each subsequent listen you really begin to appreciate the time and effort that has gone into making such an album. Discoveries unveils its treasures to those persistent enough to hear its story. For those playing at home Metamorphosis appeared on their warmly received EP and has since had another look in with some rewriting and now appears heavier than ever.

While I still believe their opus is yet to come, this album will be more than suffice to tie over their rapidly increasing fan base locally while also attracting overseas label interest. Discoveries hits stores this Friday the 11th of November, go buy a physical copy of the album and give them a means to stay on the road. Catch them on tour this December with support from Byron Bay mosh wizards In Hearts Wake.

Australian release of the year.

1. Dispossession
2. Abrasumente
3. Comatose
4. Transcending Dimensions
5. Discoveries
6. Corruption
7. Exposure
8. Metamorphosis
9. Solace
10. I Shook Hands With Death