The sun might truly be cut off from you after diving into this dark, menacing concept album from Granite State. From the very first track, it’s clear that this band has a vision, and they executed it with precision. Unlike many so-called concept albums, where the theme feels like an afterthought, this one feels fully realized, like every element was carefully placed to contribute to the overarching atmosphere of dread and isolation.
Granite State pulls you into their world with an overwhelming sense of darkness and suffocation. The weight of the guitars, the sheer intensity of the lyrics, and the brilliantly crafted interludes all work together to create a haunting, cohesive listening experience. I rarely find albums that actually feel like a journey, but this one does—it’s not just a collection of songs, but a sonic descent into fear and hopelessness.
This record is dense. The guitar work is absolutely crushing, shaking you to your core with every downstroke. They’ve nailed the art of blending heaviness with emotion, making every riff feel like it’s carrying the weight of the world. The bass is thick, dirty, and rattles your skull, giving the music a murky, oppressive undertone. It’s not just there for support—it’s a force.
Then there are the drums, which don’t just keep time; they feel like blows to the chest. Every kick, every snare hit lands with purpose, reinforcing the album’s relentless, claustrophobic energy.
The vocals are raw, primal, and animalistic, driving home the intensity of the record. You can feel the anguish and aggression in every scream and growl. However, there’s one element that slightly breaks the immersion—the moments when the vocalist shifts into lighter, almost rap-like flows. These sections, while experimental, occasionally clash with the overall tone and interrupt the album’s suffocating atmosphere. Luckily, they are few and far between, so they don’t drag down the experience too much.
What sets this album apart is its commitment to its concept. Too often, bands call their albums "conceptual" when really it's just a loose collection of songs with vague connections. Not here. Everything—from the lyrics to the instrumentation to the interludes—works together to build a world where you truly feel cut off from the sun. This isn’t just an album—it’s an experience, one that leaves you shaken, unsettled, and strangely addicted.
Granite State has crafted something special with this album. It’s dark, immersive, and unapologetically intense. While the occasional vocal flow misstep might pull you out for a moment, the sheer weight and commitment of the record more than make up for it. An oppressive, crushing listen that demands your attention. Don’t take this one lightly.
RATING: 8/10
NOTIABLE TRACKS:
Cut Off From The Sun
Sidetalk