Closure

Closure
Highview
4-song CD
Recorded/Mastered @ Audio Lab, Tampa
Engineered by Greg Marchak, Mastered by Josh Young

Four nearly perfect tracks of dynamic, melodic, extremely timely postcore from a quintet of DIY vets. Any cynics who find Closure’s sound a little too conveniently punctual should note that four of these five guys were edging toward this catchy, riffy style at least five years ago in Balance. Here, any misgivings about what might not be ‘punk’ are cast aside in the search for the perfect marriage of hook and energy, with very satisfying results. Guitarists Joe Kiser and David Peralta alternately gnash and flow, engaging throughout and cacophonous when the need arises, as in the big, big bridges of ‘Highview’ and ‘3:08’. Angus Barrs’ punchy bass drives things along, while vocalist Frank Lacatena shines consistently, and Ed Swain’s drumming keeps things far from redundant (most notably in the aforementioned standout ‘3:08’). These four tunes fit nicely together as a recorded listen, similar enough for a cohesive feel, yet disparate enough to keep you interested. Audio Lab’s production is, as usual, intuitive and representative, capturing the band’s personality and enhancing its strong points, which here include just about everything. Get you hands on it, and take notes.
- Scott Harrell