Album review: Giant Walker – Silhouettes

It’s a rare trick, writing songs which feel instantly familiar while still possessing their own distinctive character. Giant Walker, a quartet of Geordies who congregated in Guildford as music students, have that knack, as demonstrated on a second album big on earworms, emotion and technical excellence.

The latter manifests on Silhouettes not as head-spinning djent or self-indulgent soloing, but rather as a form of heavy prog that’s also tuned into the alt.metal of the ’90s. The title-track nimbly shows their skills, moving between enticing balladry and a compelling chorus before throwing down a jagged, twisty riff, ultimately ending on some lovely bluesy licks. Essentially, Giant Walker wear their chops lightly, never letting their evidently high levels of musicianship get in the way of a good tune. This impression is further enhanced by Steff Fish’s soulful vocals, lending an extra sense of class to an already impressive collection of songs.

If the band aren’t shy about admitting certain influences, their compositions ensure that they’re woven into the fabric of Silhouettes without being too obvious. It takes a few listens to realise the cheeky riff that appears midway through Eraser, Obscurer could pass for a slightly slowed-down Rage Against The Machine – and you’d certainly never describe Giant Walker as rap metal. Similarly, the opening number Time To Waste oozes a sleazy sonic sensuality that the often staid world of prog rock largely lacks.

Sometimes a sensation of familiarity is more a subconscious recognition that you’re listening to really well-crafted tune; that there are nine of those here is an absolute result from a band still in the early stages of their ascendancy.

Verdict: 4/5

For fans of: Black Peaks, Soundgarden, Karnivool

Silhouettes is released on September 20 via Church Road