Album Review: The Bones of a Dying World by If These Trees Could Talk

If it wasn’t bad enough that we missed the Astronoid album in June it seems another electrifying album passed under our radar from the same month, namely the third If These Trees Could Talk album, The Bones of a Dying World. Released on 3^rd June via Metal Blade Records, we’re not quite sure how this managed to slip by us.

Again, don’t make our mistake and nearly miss out on this album. It’s a post-rock opus of the highest standard, throwing in elements of math rock and metal it makes for one of the most enthralling and engaging albums of the year. With nine tracks coming in just shy of an hour it certainly adheres to post-rock convention for epic, sprawling songs.

The Bones of a Dying World is more than your average post-rock album though. The big post-metal riffs churning at various points throughout and adding extra meat to the crushing crescendos coupled with the intricate math moments make it a varied and compelling beast. Take ‘Iron Glacier’ as the perfect example the brutal riffs blast through in the seventh minute in a quite wonderful crescendo that acts as the perfect foil to the mellow and intricate parts that precede it.

It’s that blend on top of the atmospheric post-rock dynamics that make this such a compelling album – it’s how it all comes together in a tight yet sprawling and expansive mass that make it so appealing and engaging. You’ll notice the marked improvement in quality from previous If These Trees Could Talk albums too. While it may still be instantly recognisable as the band it’s far more ambitious and adventurous – it feels like it takes you on its own deeply personal and explorative journey. It is a real rollercoaster of journey, with the different tones and little nuances come different and subtle emotions connecting with you in visceral and very real way.

Each track on The Bones of a Dying World contributes something special and emotive, they’ll connect with you in different ways depending on your mood. They’re tracks that resonate, leaving a lasting impression. If you must dip in at one point, make it the wonderful ‘Berlin’. Get this listened to, immerse yourself, revel in its depth.

AD Rating 9.75/10