Jeff Escude – Currents

If you’ve been keeping up with my recent posts, you know that Jeff Escude has been on an absolute tear lately, but “Currents” might just be the track that makes him one of the most versatile songwriters in the game right now. While his previous work leaned heavily into the crushing weight of sludge and stoner rock, this new offering sees him diving headfirst into the complex worlds of heavy alternative and progressive rock. It’s an ambitious move, but Escude pulls it off with calculated precision you’d expect from a seasoned veteran of the underground scene.

This track continuously evolves with each segment. You can hear the DNA of legendary acts like Tool and Rush or other similar bands that always pushed boundaries of rock music, incorporated into the fabric of the composition, particularly in the way the track gradually expands from a modern alternative foundation into something far more intricate and atmospheric. The guitar work is outstanding, balancing heavy, driving riffs with more expansive, post-rock textures that give the listener room to breathe before the next rhythmic shift hits. It exemplifies tension and release, showcasing a level of songwriting maturity that is rare to find.

The technicality of the rhythm section sets “Currents” apart from anything you could hear on the rock scene right now. We’re talking about heavy, tectonic basslines that provide a massive floor for the track to stand on, paired with drumming that flat-out challenges rhythmic norms. There are moments of drum solos and instrumental sections that feel genuinely progressive, pushing the boundaries of what a modern rock track can be. The beats are well-accentuated and thoughtful, dictating an urgent and systematic pace. If you’re a fan of music that demands your full attention and rewards multiple listens, this is it. Jeff Escude has crafted a progressive masterpiece that every true rock and metal fan needs to experience.