Album review: LLNN – Unmaker

Since the release of 2016’s Loss, Copenhagen’s LLNN have held their audience captivated. Existing in the sweet spot where industrial, post-rock and hardcore all overlap, they’ve bulldozed a trajectory that's seen them perform at the prestigious Roadburn festival in 2018, ahead of the eagerly anticipated release of second album Deads. Third and newest opus Unmaker is without a doubt their heaviest offering yet.

Opening track Imperial hits like a suckerpunch, as the band waste no time in getting straight to the point. When Unmaker hits peak ferocity, it can feel almost suffocating, with Christian Bonnesen’s barked vocals channeling pure, unadulterated rage against the crash of guitars and the maelstrom of percussion beaten by Rasmus G. Sejersen.

These moments recede like waves, however, making way for respite in the form of atmospheric textures from Ketil G. Sejersen’s synths. A delicate balance is struck to encompass such brutishness with serene tranquility. LLNN’s multi-dimensional approach to songwriting is a breath of fresh air; for most bands that linger in the subgenre of post-hardcore they get lost in the focus of ensuring everything sounds as brutal as it possibly can. Where these innovative Danes stand head and shoulders above their peers is in their ability to know when to pull back for effect – taking the time to appreciate the calm makes the storm all the more impactful.

From Loss all the way through to Unmaker, the band have retained their rawness and hungry enthusiasm. Ultimately this is because they’re a group of people who just really love what they’re doing. This is more than evident on every song on this album which, coupled with its ability to feel like it might cave your skull in, makes it such an enjoyable listen.

Verdict: 4/5

For fans of: Amenra, Bossk, Rosetta

Unmaker is out now via Pelagic.

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