EXPLOSIONS IN THE SKY – Take Care, Take Care, Take Care

reviewed by Peter Cauvel | Friday, June 24th, 2011

Not many young bands aspire to be instrumental post-rockers. And why should they? Bands like Do Make Say Think and Godspeed You! Black Emperor already have the marketed cornered. Also, it’s not the most immediately enticing genre.

Still, even without catchy hooks, flashy solos, or lyrics, Explosions in the Sky make compelling music. Take Care, Take Care, Take Care, their sixth studio album, continues the band’s cinematic trajectory.

Explosions in the Sky’s three guitarists work together, intricately layering sounds. “Human Qualities” broods slowly before disintegrating into almost nothing. It then builds back up before exploding into a whirlwind crescendo. The intensity levels off for a few seconds before “Trembling Hands” starts. It’s the most rhythm-driven song on the album, with a tribal force of pounding drums. It’s also the only song less than seven minutes.

Even the more drawn-out, less-intense pieces are just as powerful. The music moves through you — grabbing hold and not letting go until the very end.

(Temporary Residence Limited, PO Box 60097, Brooklyn, NY 11206-0097)

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