The Aussie progressive/alternative scene continues to grow, expand, astound, make jaws drop and attain the worldwide attention it so richly deserves. And a new chapter opens with the debut album from Melbourne djent/progressive rock and metal act Circles. These guys came to massive attention a few years back after getting signed to prestigious UK rock and metal label Basick Records and releasing their sensational debut EP, The Compass.
It’s been a long time coming, but now the band have stepped up to the plate big time, and produced a debut full length album that expands magnificently on the ideas presented and explored on that EP. The absolute promise displayed on The Compass has been fully realised here, Infintas is a true winner. Stylistically, these guys cannot loose, their sound has such broad appeal it boggles the mind. Lovers of any kind of melodic and progressive rock and metal will find something to love here.
This album is a true journey. It can be brutally heavy when it wants to be, it soars into the stratosphere on a regular basis and injects an electronic/technological vibe into proceedings in a strong but subtle manner. There’s also the occasional acoustic moment, a little middle eastern influence adding even further flavour to the mix and even a guest appearance from Kin from the band’s great mates, the mighty Twelve Foot Ninja, on the brief but atmospheric, percussive and mid-eastern tinged ‘The Signal’.
The musicianship on display on this album is absolutely exemplary, as you would expect from a progressive band, and the production values are right on the money. Made even more astounding by the fact that virtually the entire album is a DIY effort.
Above all however, the songs are absolutely immaculate. These guys have got the delicate balance between heaviness, a progressive spirit and catchy melody down to an absolute tee. Best exemplified by stunning opener ‘Erased’, lead off single ‘Responses’ (and make sure you check out the strange, but strangely compelling video too), ‘On My Way’ and the incredible ‘Visions’, this writer’s favourite track. But really, there is not a single weak link to be heard amongst the 12 on offer here.
These guys are currently, and deservedly, on a European tour with no less than the mighty Dillinger Escape Plan and festival appearances, and by all accounts it has been an unmitigated success. That should be just the start for these guys, the entire world is their oyster. Infinitas is such a success that I would expect to see Circles touring the entire globe on a regular basis over the next year or two. In a year absolutely choc-full of magnificent releases, this album is a true standout.
9/10
Reviewer: Rod Whitfield