ALBUM REVIEW: Explosions in the Sky – End

Bella Union

Released: 15.09.23

Beginning by seeking inspiration from the end of things sounds like you’ve opened up a pack Brian Eno’s Oblique Strategy cards as an antidote for writer’s block. Or maybe, after almost 25 years together, any band needs to look at fresh ways to begin new recordings. Explosions In The Sky uses these ‘endings’ – relationships, deaths and changes – to build texture upon as the legendary Texas four-piece tackle their eighth studio album.

Their crushing quiet/loud structure is present, and on opener Ten Billion People and Peace Or Quiet the lush restrained interplay of instrumentation is denser than ever, even before the cacophonous sounds rush in. Moving On, All Mountains and The Fight all demonstrate the band remain master communicators of feelings and powerful emotions musically, no words required.