If there’s one thing I admire in music, it’s a strong melody. Melody is abundant on Lamentia’s debut EP Earth Libretto, and at times, their sound is as tuneful and mesmerizing as alt/prog rock can achieve. Pedal-inflected bass lines and pounding drum rhythms construct the framework that holds the album’s essence, the guitar and vocals.
The record kicks off with the title track, which immediately bursts with energy. From what I gather by listening, Lamentia’s lyrics don’t focus as much on storytelling as they do on vivid imagery, painting striking scenes in the listener’s mind while the vocalist passionately wails. Also noteworthy are the resonant and textured guitar effects, piano, and exceptionally well-mixed bass tone. The bass subtly but distinctly hums beneath everything while the drummer propels the band through multiple tempo shifts and a sudden time signature change for the song’s loud, remarkable finale. “Gift of Context” offers a glimpse of what’s to come on Earth Libretto. The emotive yet commanding vocals, deeply evocative guitar work, and tight rhythm section leave the listener eager for more, and Lamentia seems more than willing to deliver.
Although the album primarily depends on vocals and atmospheric melodies to sustain its momentum, it also carves out moments for the band to shift their approach from time to time. The over-nine-minute closer, “Missing Branch,” trudges through an ominous, slow-paced section before accelerating and abruptly pausing with a striking piano break—all of this unfolding before the track even reaches its midpoint. Then there are songs like “To All Things,” which disguises itself as a flowing ballad for five minutes. Stylistically, the record is reminiscent of a chameleon. A chameleon can alter its colors, but it never transforms into another creature entirely. Earth Libretto may seem like a constantly evolving fusion of musical ideas, but at its core, it remains a rock album that doesn’t attempt to reinvent the wheel—just present compelling songs with unforgettable melodies.
Earth Libretto’s greatest asset is how enjoyable it is to experience. For those who listen intently, the ever-present vocal acrobatics won’t be the only takeaway. The album is sonically rich and layered. The final moments of the record signal a band that appears to be approaching their creative pinnacle.
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"Earth Libretto" may seem like a constantly evolving fusion of musical ideas, but at its core, it remains a rock album that doesn’t attempt to reinvent the wheel.
