I’m not even going to mention their past. Why should I? On Tapestry of Webs, Past Lives reveal a marked detraction from it, and that’s about all you need to know with that subject. Tapestry of Webs is an album to behold – an eclectic release that has you concentrating on every “oooooooohh oh oh.” Every buzz is impressed with tension and eventually builds this ominous eruption. Tapestry of Webs is a bit jarring and almost menacing at times, but they don’t forget to put a little meaning and purpose behind it, too. Past Lives seem to have mastered this quality where they take a diverse array of eclectic qualities and mash them together forcefully… and they somehow come out cohesively! Song after song, the post-punk concoction lures you deep into the abyss with groovy rhythm sections and convoluted lyrics, but it’s soon evident that there’s more to Past Lives than first meets the eye.
Tapestry has more ups and downs than that roller-coaster that always made you sick as a kid (but you went on anyway, of course, because it was so fun). The jangly horns, skittish guitars, clarinet, and even organ all add to this sentiment. Past Lives display a wide array of diversity on Tapestry, but many times the most riveting facet is Jordan Billie’s vocal work. Instead of chaos and complexity, we’re spoon-fed restraint and moderation. His croon is temperate, save for a few abrupt eruptions throughout. And the best part is, he’s right here. The resonance of “Hex Takes Hold” and “K Hole” give the distinct impression that Jordan Billie is only feet away, and Past Lives draws you nearer and nearer with every development on the way to each subsequent finale. Catchy or dissonant, Past Lives make it enjoyable, even if it is pretty harrowing at times.
The roller-coaster of Tapestry of Webs is definitely jarring, exciting, and elusive at times. There are surprises around every corner. Expecting a lull? You get a scream. Expecting a chorus? Here’s a quirky horn section for you. It has its down-moments, of course, but for the vast majority of their latest, Past Lives commands that you be on the edge of your seat. Never too eclectic for its own good, Past Lives know when to stop at the edge and not go overboard. Honestly, I have no theory about where Past Lives is going next, up or down, left or right- but I kinda like it that way.
And yes, by the way- This is JUST as good as The Blood Brothers.
Overall Grade: 4/5
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