Opposites (Deluxe)
The Scottish trio Biffy Clyro continues to fuse an expansive prog-rock approach with muscular, metal-edged riffage and engaging melodies. *Opposites* looks both inward and outward as it pairs angst-tinged introspective passages with anthemic choruses (sometimes in the same song). Singer/guitarist Simon Neil projects a tormented gravitas as he embraces his weaknesses (“Different People”), confronts the faceless terrors of modern life (“Black Chandelier”), and seizes a moment of heroism (“Sounds Like Balloons”). Jackhammer guitar thrusts and crisp beats underscore the wounded swagger of “Stingin’ Belle” and “Modern Magic Formula.” From the brassy flamenco energy of “Spanish Radio” to the soaring sonic architecture of “Biblical,” Biffy Clyro goes for a widescreen approach worthy of vintage Pink Floyd. Neil and his bandmates can also craft more intimate self-examinations, as “Skylight” makes clear. “Picture a Knife Fight” is the trio at its most infectiously poppy. *Opposites* covers a lot of ground artistically but stays coherent thanks to Biffy Clyro’s undeniable chops, galvanizing energy, and genre-busting ambition.
Double albums are usually a daunting prospect for musicians and listeners alike, but it's a move that makes sense for Biffy Clyro, an outfit who went from making abstract alternative rock in their early years to busting out fiery stadium sized anthems in the last few. On paper, Opposites might allow the Ayrshire trio to flex their creative muscles and cover all bases with time left over to experiment a little too. On paper...
ClashMusic: Read an album review of the new album from Scottish band Biffy Clyro, 'Opposites'.
Biffy Clyro's development from prog-metal to a more polished, arena-friendly sound defines their sixth album, writes <strong>Phil Mongredien</strong>
Opposites is ultimately a surprisingly immediate and rewarding listen, compensating in consistency for what it lacks in depth.
<p>A double concept album with a cover by Storm Thorgerson – have Biffy Clyro succumbed to the ultimate rock cliche, asks <strong>Alexis Petridis</strong></p>
Biffy Clyro's new album Opposites makes it hard not to admire the band’s ambition and chutzpah, writes Neil McCormick.
Noisy Scottish trio go for the epic on their double concept album. CD review by Bruce Dessau