ALBUM REVIEW: Antiphons - Fine
Brian Dove first started playing solo under the name of Antiphons around 2012, but it wasn’t until January 2017 that the now full band released their debut album, Groan. Now, not even a full year later, comes an EP that shows a huge improvement of sound and control. Fine, which is being released on Richmond tape label Citrus City, is bound to introduce the 4-piece band to a larger audience through the expression of refined ‘80s synth meeting their signature high vocals and dark, layered tones. With a run time just shy of 15 minutes, there’s no reason to not check it out.
The 5-song EP has a circular feel to it, beginning and ending with two explosive songs that have been stuck in my head for weeks. Released as a single, “Benadryl” relates love to the well-known cold medicine. Its twangy lead guitar sticks out perfectly to the 12-string acoustic that can be heard behind it. The whole album captures the sound of a dreamlike state. Especially in this song, it does so even while talking about bodies failing those who possess it. This is followed by “Fine” and “Flesh,” which are hardly over a minute in length, but both pack fiery punches. Dove originally planned on using harsh shouting vocals, but opted to use a trance-like falsetto instead. “Flesh” captures the same fast-paced punk feeling while using a droning synth and spiritual humming. It winds up being an amazing transition to the slow building dream that is “Rattlesnake.” This manages to build in a way that will captivate its listeners and then explodes right before dialing it back again. Utilizing such control over their sound is one of the prime reasons Fine shows a very healthy growth for Antiphons. Ending on “Burnt” is also one of the best decisions they made. To say the least, this song is really catchy. Each instrument works together like finely-tuned gears to create the sound of being in a daze. Just when you think you’re lost in their cloud, they slam into the chorus, which will be stuck in your head long after the first time you hear it. In fact, I’d go as far saying that while you hear Dove singing “I always burn my tongue” on repeat in your mind, you’ll find yourself in a dream again. You’ll find yourself starting the EP over from the beginning and listening again. And again. And again. I know I did.
Fine is the perfect EP to follow up a debut album. While they plan on releasing another full-length album in the future, this is more than enough to attract a larger fan-base all the while making those who are already fans sick with excitement.
Antiphons consists of Brian Dove on guitar and vocals, Tommy Terrell on lead guitar, Chris Matz slapping the bass, and Matthew Stinnett hammering the drums. Check out their releases on Bandcamp or through Citrus City, and make sure to pick up a limited copy of their tape while you’re at it, too. You’ll thank me later.
-Matt Leibowitz