Air Chrysalis Album Review

Concord Dawn have always seemed to be ahead of the drum and bass game, innovating and pushing the genre with each release, and in the process becoming well known here and around the world.

That innovative streak seemed to diminish a little with the departure of Evan Short (who has now returned to his metal roots with Cobra Khan and Subtract) and the last album, The Enemy Within, had more of a commercial/mainstream feel than their earlier work. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, as it was also the most accessible due to it’s lighter feel.

The latest album, Air Chrysalis, continues on that path, managing to cater at the same time to those long time fans, and those who are looking for a polished, catchy (read radio friendly) drum and bass sound. And best of all, it’s free – as long as you like their Facebook page.

There’s a handful of songs that really stand out on the album, notably “One Tear” which once again features the vocal talents of Rikki Morris. His track “Forever” was the highlight from previous album The Enemy Within, so it’s no surprise that this track is just as strong. It would be hard not to also mention Savage’s skills on “Step ‘Em Up High”, harking back to Scribe’s efforts on 2003’s album Get Ready, but planting the sound firmly in the now.

Those tracks are scattered throughout the album, providing counterpoints to the instrumental tracks; an effect that works well for the most part. The vocal tracks tend to be mellower, so anyone putting the album on expecting a relentless onslaught of drum and bass to get the party cranking is probably going to be somewhat disappointed; actually, anyone expecting a full on dance album is probably going to want to look elsewhere. But if it’s well-crafted electronica you’re after, then Air Chrysalis should be just the ticket.