Without missing a step, Desiderat’s latest release, Ipsoma, continues the band’s steady evolution from their 2021 self-titled debut EP and last year’s single, “Lust & Death.” The Berlin-based international outfit thrives on a dynamic interplay between crushingly heavy, intense moments and tranquil, atmospheric passages across the album’s nine tracks. The opener, “Falling,” and its counterpart, “Summer,” although contrasting in tone, share a common goal—mastering the balance between aggression and serenity. Where “Summer” frenetically alternates between tempo shifts and surges of intensity, “Falling” opts for a slow-burn approach, displaying a haunting ambiance that darkens with each meticulous buildup.
The expanded rendition of “Lust & Death” showcases Desiderat’s sound, with layered guitars, colossal riffs, thick bass fuzz, and unpredictable drum fills. The track builds from slow, menacing riffs to a rapid, choppy onslaught of cutthroat riffs punctuated by bursts of guitar feedback. Tracks like “Quest” and the subsequent “Unself” highlight the band’s ability to create alluring, dense atmospheres, transporting the listener to a bleak, chilling soundscape far removed from the comfort of their surroundings. Meanwhile, pieces like “Victory” and the closer, “Self,” excel in subtlety and restraint, offering a textural, mood-driven experience that unfolds with deliberate patience. The closer, in particular, marries breakdown-like riffs with bass grooves and intricate drum patterns, serving as a masterful summation of what makes Desiderat an act to look forward to.
Ipsoma is filled with fresh ideas and heroic experimentation. The band’s relentless dedication to perfecting their craft, exceptional musicianship, and singular vision all converge to create a thrilling kaleidoscope of sounds. Desiderat feels like a project born in a lab, genetically engineered to align perfectly with one’s musical preferences. This album demands repeated listens, each time pulling you deeper into the fascinating world they’ve constructed. Don’t just listen—immerse yourself in Ipsoma.
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Ipsoma is filled with fresh ideas and heroic experimentation. The band’s relentless dedication to perfecting their craft, exceptional musicianship, and singular vision all converge to create a thrilling kaleidoscope of sounds.
