Swiss post-metal and post-rock collective FALL OF LEVIATHAN are set to release their debut full-length album “In Waves” on March 1 via Vitruve Records.  Inspired by nautical themes and the abyssal, the Swiss collective plays a mixture of post-rock and post-metal elements throughout six tracks “In Waves” showcases the band’s penchant for layering dark, heavy tones with graceful and ethereal melodies, resulting in an unpredictable journey that’s equal parts gloomy and beautiful emotive.

 “Nantucket” is first. As with a lot of Post Rock, the sound eases in, with acoustic guitars that build, until the sky comes crashing down in a crescendo. The foot is then released from the gas pedal, and the sound retreats once again, with spoken words, before the big sound comes around again. The title track has another smooth and easy entrance, with a little melody that builds. The tones here make you feel good, and give you pause to think about the things that are nice in your life. Learn to appreciate them. “Pacific” is much heavier and more ominous. Like the ocean of its namesake, I am reminded of the famous line in The Shawshank Redemption that reads, “they say the Pacific has no memory.” Contemplate the enormity of the Pacific.

“Spermwhale” uses more major chords than minor, resulting in a warm and inviting feeling from the guitars. The heavy weight that drops however reminds you of the band’s power with the emotional side of the music. “Red Bay” is calming song, but not without some mystery. Many of the tones are tense, and you have the distinct feeling that something is behind you at all times, but the gulls in the background give you a sense of peace. “Ahkab” closes the album. A heavier entrance gives way to more smooth tones, but as the key is minor, they still have an air of mystery to them. The crushing tones however almost have more weight than one can bear.

This who know me well know that I love Post Rock music. It gives my head a much clearer break from the usual Metal songs that I listen to on a daily basis. The best part of the album for me is the mystery that lies somewhere between the heavier structure and the more delicate ones, creating an unsettling feeling of sorts. This was a good first effort from the band, although I know there are capable of better.