Post-metal often finds itself dismissed as formulaic, with predictable quiet-loud dynamics and clichéd crescendos. However, Kansas City’s A Light Within, spearheaded by guitarist Jeff Irvine, shatters that stereotype, delivering something deeply personal and distinctive. Emerging in 2013 with their debut EP, Preface, the project has steadily evolved, releasing a string of EPs while refining their craft. Unsatisfied with the original production of Preface, the band revisited and reimagined it, resulting in the refreshed and revitalized re:preface.
At its core, A Light Within’s sound is rooted in sludge and stoner metal, but what sets them apart is their meticulous attention to atmosphere and psychedelia, evoking shades of Slowdive. Unlike many contemporaries in the post-metal realm, they eschew growls or harsh vocals. Instead, the clean, resonant vocals—reminiscent of Jonas Renkse of Katatonia, but more commanding—serve as an emotive centerpiece. The three-track release expertly balances sludgy riffs, expansive arpeggios, and melancholic melodies, leaving no room for weak spots or filler.
The EP opens with “Page #32 (Morning)”, an atmospheric track steeped in doomy cinematics. The song’s brooding tone and sonic weight are elevated by Kyle Brandt’s impassioned vocal delivery, which brings an almost cathartic quality to the track. It sets the stage for the lumbering “Page #18 (Grin)”, a heavier, more aggressive piece that layers thick slabs of doom metal with serpentine post-rock guitar harmonies. The band demonstrates a masterful ability to extract shimmering melodies from dissonance.
Closing the EP is the seismic “Page #66 (Sixes)”, which draws parallels to early Porcupine Tree with its fugue-like pacing and haunting atmosphere. The track seamlessly combines massive post-metal riffs, soaring alternative rock elements, and space rock flourishes, culminating in a cacophony of beauty and dread.
With re:preface, A Light Within has breathed new life into their debut. This reimagined effort not only underscores the band’s potential but also challenges the stagnation often associated with the genre. Moving forward, it will be exciting to see how they expand on this compelling foundation.
Listen to re:preface on Bandcamp. Follow A Light Within on Facebook.
With re:preface, A Light Within has breathed new life into their debut. This reimagined effort not only underscores the band’s potential but also challenges the stagnation often associated with the genre. Moving forward, it will be exciting to see how they expand on this compelling foundation.
