Post-rock music continuously evolves through decades, and this particular genre is currently on the rise. Piles of brand new records are popping out from nowhere, but despite quantity, each release possesses loads of qualities. Pangaea by relatively new post-rock outlet Noswal is one of those great albums worth mentioning. Judging by the minimal information presented on social media, it seems that the artist behind this marvelous act tends to stay anonymous as much as possible. Thankfully, some of the info leaked out, so Nick Lawson is responsible for everything from outstanding performance to the brilliant production skills.

I am not quite sure about his previous musical endeavors, but it seems that Nick is an experienced musician who’s entirely up to the task. Pangaea offers thirteen instrumental post-rock compositions, decorated by astounding musicianship that goes beyond the beforementioned genres. Besides the dominant pressence of post-rock sound, Noswal incorporates elements of post-metal, progressive metal, modern metal, sludge, post-hardcore, alternative, and indie rock. Each number bursts with impressive ideas, entertaining dynamics, and massive sound. The complete material encompasses all these elements into a comprehensive collection of well-balanced compositions that will keep your attention for a very long period.

Noswal bases his sound on calm atmospherics, which all of a sudden transform into giant slabs of skillfully composed guitar shreds. These atmospherics are carrying some delicate arpeggiated maneuvers, layered by impressive math-rock acrobatics. However, Noswal gradually builts in some complex modern metal riffages, followed by mindblowing guitar licks. Guitars are surrendering various harmonizations, polyphonous thematics, tapping sequences, subtle ambiances, and other technicalities. Still, Nick also leaves some spare room for other instruments to breathe in some soul into the material. The warm-sounding basslines are supporting the guitars throughout the entire material, but also serving as a binding element between guitars and drums. Nick also thought about the rhythmical structures of Pangea, so each segment carries very exhaustive rhythms that are perfectly suiting the harmonies. Therefore, Pangaea offers a full specter of appealing tones to the listeners who’re looking out for a technically demanding post-rock sound, decorated with soothing moments.

Judging by the overall listening experience, it seems that Nick spent quite some time working on these compositions. Each number carries something special and unique that will force you to come back for more. Noswal nurtures a very detailed approach to the post-rock music, fully stacked by characteristic passages, sound explorations, and experimentations with technically demanding music. Pangea represents a mindblowing debut that goes beyond the fundamentals of post-rock music, so this masterpiece requires your full attention. Head over to Noswal’s Bandcamp page and give it a spin.