science fiction

Radiant Knife Slice Through "Wasted Minds"

science fiction

Extremes need their foil, for what defines a scene but its counterpart, but striving for a happy medium flies in the face of metal’s antagonism. Raw, tortuous, and blazing sounds reflect our intensity and fuel the genre’s legacy, so how do bands respectfully heavy and moderate enter the room?

Many who strive to find the modest groove inevitably end up spayed in the radio rock vortex, but thankfully groups like Radiant Knife, with their upcoming full-length Science Fiction, satisfy the heavier itch while hitting cathartic peaks that demonstrate restraint. They desire not to crush but rather fill your mind with a humble and honest approach that puts the listener at ease. Despite its sophisticated nature, no pop quiz awaits the album’s finale: they intend for you to drink your drink and nod your head.

Check out an exclusive stream of the album’s second track “Wasted Minds” below:

The Louisiana duo take their cues from thrash and prog metal, but often sound like a heavier Rush than Mastodon or Intronaut, two acts of imminent comparison. Singer and guitarist Stephen Sheppert performs without strain while drummer Greg Travasos unlocks hidden messages within the tempo. One can sense how well the duo sync as once recognizable patterns build until layered and distinct. This approach reminds me of Loincloth, a band that summons demons but never spins wildly out of control.

To clarify, this harmony does not make their music light. They have slowly sharpened their claws since their early days known as Radeon King and Science Fiction cements their dedication to the crunch. An early-thrash vibe permeates the vocals on “Wasted Minds,” while cunning riffs take shots at drums intent on hitting everything but its target before realigning. By its end, your mind should be in half-meditation and half-bliss.

Science Fiction will be digitally available on August 8th on Bandcamp.