Having delved extensively into experimental metal legends Neurosis's discography it was inevitable that I'd explore the solo projects of the members of the said band. I'd already been blown away by Steve Von Till's own work, such as the sombre, chilling "Breathe" and the excellent cover of Neil Young's "Running Dry", where he somehow manages to make the song even more mournful and mirthless than the original. I was expecting more of the same from fellow singer/guitarist Scott Kelly's work.
After such gargantuan, at times extremely dense and sludgy records as "Through Silver In Blood" and "Times of Grace", by his main band Neurosis, Scott understandably wanted a record with a little more breathing space.
This is exactly that, at times incredibly minimalist. The album's opener "I Don't Feel You Anymore" sets the tone for the following seven songs - essentially just Scott with an acoustic guitar. As you might've guessed, this isn't beer drinking party music, just as grim and heart-on-sleeve as Neurosis - never less than totally honest. "Sacred Heart" is an interesting tune - four minutes of a cappella , which to be honest drags a little, but the experimentation and audacity has to be admired. "Flower" is another great brooding number - there's certainly a lot of quality on the record, perfect for reflective moments late at night.
8/10
Highlights : "I Don't Feel You Anymore", "Flower"
See also - Neurosis "I Can See You", Steve Von Till "Breathe", Johnny Cash "I Walk The Line", Wino - "Iron Horse/Born To Lose"
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