It’s rare that I dedicate two Post Rock Posts to the same band; usually, they’re all about new artists operating within or around the post rock genre. However, sometimes artists change their sound so much from album to album that I feel as if they justify another entry in the same column. Besides, this is Heavy Blog; when have we been super strict about our definitions and categories? With these things in mind, let me update you as to Salvya and how they’ve been doing. I first wrote about this Israeli band over two years ago; they were gearing up for Unrecognizable then, an ethereal album that was firmly rooted around progressive and post rock influences and a strong main vocalist. Last week, the band released Impostor Syndrome and let’s just say there have been some changes. Head on over the jump for an example.
Choosing “Trying to Fall” as an example might be a bit of a trick on my end; it’s definitely the most isolated and out there track. However, strangely enough, it also speaks volumes about the approach Salvya have taken with this release. True to what the band have been seeing of their own release, this track is steeped in influences from electronic artists like Stateless, Tycho and The Gathering. This last comparison is an especially potent one. The balance of dark electronics and brooding effects with the vocals is most reminiscent of that band’s Home. This is most present as the track nears its zenith and the electronic instruments seep into the vocals before they return, melodic and powerful.
The end result, of this track as well as the entire album, should be most appealing to those who crave cold rooms, inky street corners and cities shrouded in mystery. Impostor Syndrome is also impressive for its execution; it is a vast departure from what the band released earlier and yet, somehow feels natural and in-line. Something about the core of the band is still present, perhaps not surprising given that it still contains the same members. But what Salvya have managed to do is translate those ideas into a new language, a more somber iteration on their appeal. This secures them a second entry in this column and a warm place in my heart as winter, hopefully, nears.