Karmanjakah's 'Diamond Morning' is a stunning fusion of progressive metal, djent, and thall, delivering an uplifting and cathartic experience. The album showcases the band's technical prowess and unique blend of heavy and ambient sounds, creating a dreamy and heartfelt journey through its lyrics and powerful vocals. The album's exploration of different moods and experimental elements, such as the use of the Aeolian mode and free rap, adds depth and intrigue to the overall listening experience.
One of the standout tracks is 'Dove', which features shimmering keys, tender vocals, and nature-inspired lyrics that match the depth of the singer's voice. The track's balance of heavy rhythms and introspective lyrics establishes the album's radiant identity.
Another notable track is 'Thousand Horns', which deviates from the standard djent composition with a melancholic breakdown in the Aeolian mode. The track's tension and release, as well as its modulation into a brighter key, create a colorful and glistening burst of sound.
'Diamond Train' brings back the Middle Eastern musical influence showcased in 'Ancient Skills' with intricate trills and turns, while 'Sun, Astray' presents a melodically and acoustically driven track with heavier thall elements taking a relaxed accompaniment role.
The album also explores ambient sections with 'Sapphire' and 'Ruby', which introduce sparkling, jazzy interludes and dream-like ambience. However, the ambient tracks eat up a large chunk of runtime and limit the exploration of complex compositions on the heavier tracks.
Overall, 'Diamond Morning' is an exemplary record that showcases Karmanjakah's musical talent and technical prowess. The album's weightiness of the album's massive tracks and the weightlessness of their soft ambiences make it easy to take in the music over and over. To any listener who wants to brighten their mood without sacrificing the vulnerable catharsis of metal, 'Diamond Morning' is a must-listen.
