Circles Over Sidelights

Circles Over Sidelights play a bizarre, unconventional, yet not particularly riveting form of metallic hardcore that touches upon a myriad of influences: Converge, Rites Of Spring and Neurosis, to name a few. The five tracks on this EP are designed to flow effortlessly, and they do — the problem is, there is not a single memorable moment on the entire recording. The group is at their best experimenting with atmospheric undertones — during the spacier moments, the band is confident enough to sidestep their lack of cohesive songwriting, and the listener is momentarily shielded from the music’s pretensions. When they break into faster tempos, there is nothing offered that hasn’t been beaten into the ground time and time again, and you are left checking your watch periodically. Additionally, the production could be roomier and more polished — a raw, flat mix does not serve a band who’s strongest point is their subtlety. Circles Over Sidelights have potential and a more focused approach to their ambient side and taking several giant steps away from metal territory would serve them well. A band to keep your eye on, but unfortunately not much else.