Earth: 'Angels of Darkness, Demons of Light II'

Tracked at the same recording sessions as its predecessor, Earth's latest retains the more open, improv-heavy approach that the previous release was lauded for, while further exploring the minimalistic psychological space that the band crafts for its listeners through composition and duration. These songs are long; only a single track clocks in under eight minutes, but the lull that Earth is so masterful at creating can captivate the listener in a way that very few rock bands can and allows the songs to evolve in situ. Lori Goldston's performance as cellist can be subdued, percussive, vibrant, lyrical, and consistently works with guitarist/bandleader Dylan Carlson's provincial, yet succinct, guitar work. References could easily be drawn to classical Hindustani music, modal blues, and spaghetti western soundtracks; Carlson himself regularly cites the tradition of Southern gospel and praise music as a direct influence. The result is a Southern-tinged, mood-heavy, impressionistic album that, while requiring patience, provides the listener with a remarkable aesthetic experience. Earth may not be suited for the restless listener, but those with the appropriate attention span will find the experience incredibly rewarding.

★★★★ ½ (out of 5 stars)