Cranial – Alternate Endings CD (Moment Of Collapse Records)

Cranial, a band that emerged from the Omega Massif, released their masterpiece “Alternate Endings” in 2019. Building upon the solid foundation they established with their EP “Dead Ends” and critically acclaimed debut album “Dark Towers, Bright Lights,” Cranial showcased their ability to craft a unique and captivating sound by incorporating a diverse range of elements. From the initial notes and beats, Cranial shines at blending generous servings of bone-crushing heaviness, mesmerizing melodies, catchy harmonies, and cathartic ambiances. Their experimentations with sludge and post-metal, resonate with power, keeping listeners engaged throughout the album. Each track is a pleasant sonic journey, delivering a captivating mix of thoughtfully planned orchestrations.

One notable aspect of “Alternate Endings” is Cranial’s refined songwriting skills. The band has clearly pushed themselves to new heights, crafting intricate and dynamic compositions. The album flows seamlessly from one track to the next, immersing the listener in an magnificent musical experience. Teaming up with Ghost City Recordings and Magnus Lindberg from Cult Of Luna was a stroke of genius for Cranial. The production of “Alternate Endings” is impeccable, capturing the raw power of the band’s sound while maintaining clarity and balance. The result is a sonic landscape that is both crushing and carefully crafted. Throughout the album, Cranial demonstrate their ability to create an emotional and cathartic listening experience. The music evokes a range of feelings, from intense aggression to melancholic introspection. It is a testament to the band’s skill to evoke such powerful emotions through their music. The band achieved this by combining only the finest properties of post-metal, sludge, black metal, doom, and cinematic ambiance. These experimentations with several complementary music genres uplift this masterpiece on an entirely new level.

With “Alternate Endings,” Cranial solidify their position on the international post-metal/sludge scene. The album exemplifies their growth as musicians and their dedication to honing their craft. It’s a masterful album that showcases the band’s ability to create a unique and compelling sound. With their refined songwriting, powerful production, and emotional depth, Cranial has crafted an album that deserves the attention of post-metal and sludge music fans. It is a release that further establishes Cranial as one of the best bands in the genre. The vinyl version sold out, but you can still score this album on a beautiful digipak CD. Head to Moment Of Collapse Records for more information about ordering.