The Prids’ third album Chronosynclastic has a distinctly different vibe from its predecessors. Although the band’s sound still maintains their dark post-punk and shoegaze leanings, there’s a lively feel to the songs in this album. It’s melodies have a little more bounce to them, as if a wave of brightness soars over their once field a gray. After a few minutes of digging around on the internet, it all made sense. Before this album’s conception, the band experienced a highway accident that left some of the members injured and their gear destroyed. Yet they were able to push through with the help of their fans and their strong will to persevere, resulting in this wonderful album. This feeling of triumph is something that shines through in the songs of Chronosynclastic.
As I’ve always noted from reviewing their previous material, it comes to no surprise that the guitar work and the blending of noise effects and textures in this record is still top-notch. The Prids have a way of weaving their sonic elements into something beautiful no matter how harsh or gritty in isolation they may be. With a subtle use of synths they’ve always been able to put a little bit of glow to their songs. For this album however, they’ve used the blend vocals from Frederickson and La Fave in almost all of the songs. The resulting effect provides a dreamier feeling that contrasts well with their dark template. Opening tracks “Hide Your Thoughts” and “When I Look” are good examples of this, with the guitars lining almost seamlessly with the rhythms and the jagged shoegaze effects.
Fourth track “Break” surprised me as something completely unique from what came before. It has a preppy melody, where its hopeful synths and soaring riffs overpower their dark textures, something that’s a first in their discography so far. “Desolate” is also a unique one – with Fredericksen performing its hazy vocals solely. There’s a steel guitar line here that gives it a folky-introspective vibe. Couple that with a melody that’s akin to a lullaby, and we have the dreamiest song from The Prids so far.
By the closing track I’ve also been getting some 90’s rock vibes like to The Smashing Pumpkins and a few grunge hints in “I’ll Wait” and “In the Fall”. Adding even more to the many wonderful surprises in this record. Chronosynclastic may have been wrought with setbacks, but it ultimately is a triumphant album. One that boasts their best material by far.
