REVIEW

Fifth album from Swedish cosmic drone duo ISON.

Blending shoegaze, post-rock, and ambient drone, the album unfolds as a grand spectacle that explores the mysteries of the cosmos. The decision to feature Mikael Stanne of Dark Tranquillity exclusively on clean vocals is a particularly tasteful touch.

That said, the overall darkness feels somewhat restrained this time around. With Lisa Cuthbert—who appeared as a guest on the previous release—now taking on main vocal duties, the shadowy intensity has softened slightly.

It is hard not to miss the deep, dark beauty of Heike Langhans’ vocals from earlier eras, whose absence is keenly felt here.