It has been a while since we reviewed Intronaut (we last covered 2006’s Void); the band has made considerable strides and have evolved their sound since then. Killing Birds with Stones is the opening effort on Habitual Levitations, and it immediately throws listeners in the midst of something deep, dark, and heavy. There is a certain expansiveness that is present through the eight-plus minutes of this introductory salvo, a careful helming of an album that sets the stage for everything that is to follow. The band’s efforts on the first half of Habitual Levilations coalesce into a coherent effort, increasing the overall momentum considerably. Milk Leg showcases a different set of influences for Intronaut, coming forth with emotional intensity more than a straight, focused effort. The nearly-seven minute track has legs in the intelligent arrangements and the narrative established by the instrumental and vocal side of the band.
Blood from a Stone is the penultimate track, providing a set of influences and styles that are disparate from the bulk of efforts on Habitual Levitations. Quite possibly an introduction for the feel of subsequent recordings, Blood from a Stone taps out at the three-minute mark but resounds long after the disc has ended.
The Way Down caps off Habitual Levitations, and the Habitual Levitations (Instilling Words with Tones) CD can be purchased at any well-stocked independent music store. The album can be ordered through a number of online retailers. Keep an eye on the Intronaut website (and the Century Media label site) for more information about the band.
Top Tracks: Killing Birds with Stones, Blood from a Stone
Rating: 8.4/10
Intronaut Habitual Levitations (Instilling Words with Tones) CD Review / 2013 Century Media / 9 Tracks / http://intronautofficial.com/ / http://www.centurymedia.com
