REVIEW: Talons - Hollow Realm
Talons - Hollow Realm (Big Scary Monsters (CD) / Topshelf (LP))
Release date: 15 November 2010
Following their initial 2-track demo, a 7" and a couple of split singles, Talons are about to reveal their first proper full-length to the world. Hollow Realm is a collection of eight brand new tracks powered by twelve eager arms, and one common goal. Talons delve into their collective talent pool to produce one of the strongest debuts I've heard in a long time, which will see fans knocked for six all over again.
The six-piece navigate an aggressive terrain in apocalyptic opener St. Mary Will Be The Death Of Us All, which will pummel you all into sweet submission. The transition into Peter Pan sees their incredible pace sustained within the fiery soundscape they create. Mind-blowing drums keep stride, whilst the other instruments thrust skywards; adrenaline runs high as Talons build their cinematic world around themselves.
Conventionally, vocals form the focal point of a band's output. But with Talons' instrumental proposition, focal points shift and alter as Hollow Realm progresses. Doom-laden violins give way to blindingly epic guitars; the drums shift from punishing to mind-boggling - and the production elevates Talons' towering inferno further. If you have ever caught the band live, you will see that producer Tom Woodhead (ex-ForwardRussia frontman) has managed to capture their live spirit completely.
But it's not all aggression and total annihilation. The band come up for air mid-way through The Shadows Of Our Stilted Homes, during which the violins recall the vibrant beauty found on Jonsi's Go record, proving that even at their less intense, they still shine brightly. From the inquisitive hop of Iris's violins to the slow-build of the ten-minute masterpiece Hollow Depth, Talons take every emotion and bring it to life. With every twist and every turn, Talons inject every last bit of passion into their creations.
One listen is all it will take to convince you that Hollow Realm is without doubt one of 2010's most intense, awe-inspiring records. The band take no prisoners, and will leave your heart racing and jaw dropped - a total knock-out.
The verdict: 10/10
For fans of: And So I Watch You From Afar, Russian Circles, Bleaklow
Wednesday, November 10, 2010 at 13:04
Reader Comments (3)
I knew Talons were something special when I saw them supporting Johnny Foreigner in Birmingham, think it was the hare and hounds. Their set was intense and sort of lost on the JF fans, no disrespect to them it's just musically completely different, arguably more complex. But I was blown away, glad the reviewer agrees. Hopefully they don't fade away like so many talented bands in an overcrowded and often unrewarding market.
They are phenomenal live aren't they? I reckon there is plenty of life in the band, so here's to many more albums to come!
They are amazing live. Stood in front of one of their guitarists and damn... best player I have ever seen, without a doubt. Can't wait for the snow to clear so I get this album plus a shirt and a demo collection in the mail!