Siamese - 'dissolution' - Review

BAND. A rare Danish gem waiting to be uncovered, Siamese have been a pure joy to follow during the last decade or so, and watch evolve into one of the most exciting contemporary Scandinavian acts to fully emerge onto the global heavy music scene. As brilliant and faultless as ever, led by the force of nature that is Mirza Radonjica, the band returns with dissolution - darker, personal and more conscious but equally charismatic and appealing as seen in the past. Also, a masterclass in modern cross-genre alt-metal production.

https://youtu.be/EbPKFf6fyI4?is=MQVvQcPsUp35rFfa

REVIEW. I will refrain from labelling dissolution as Siamese's most 'anything' album, a hard task to achieve considering the uncontainable energy of Home (2021) and disarming charm of Elements (2024). It is, however, a perfect continuation of their evolution, embracing the slick vibe, irresitable charm and pop allure of its predecessors, whilst presenting a new, more polished and mature chapter in their career.

SONGS. Siamese's tracks tend to feel disjointed when taken out of their respective record's atmosphere, and same goes for dissolution. Sure, there are standalone bangers like the opening single trinity of 'dark', 'drown' and 'sense', but the LP brings out a whole new context to the front. From the pulsating synths of 'friends' and anthemic chorus of 'dissolution' all the way to the stomping riffage in 'sinner', the chilling screams in 'reaper' or melancholic team-up with Caskets on 'reveries', the album is an intoxicating concoction of influences, moods and emotions waiting to be experienced in full.

https://youtu.be/ai1y1m0xD_Q?is=uJqXeZyHUakK6EvR

OVERALL. I cannot see dissolution suddenly winning loads of new fans, but it doesn't have to. It is a gift to everyone who joined the tribe at some point in the past, whether an OG fan from the very beginning or a fresher, brought here through Mirza's must-check side project Afterglow. It is an homage to their past, a reality check for the present, and a statement of future intent, delivered with a trademark Siamese charisma and flair.

Siamese - 'dissolution'

Country: Denmark

Release: 26 June

Label: Long Branch Records