ALBUM REVIEW: Final Coil - The World We Left Behind For Others

FINAL COIL (England)
"The World We Left Behind For Others" (Digital album/CD)
(WormHoleDeath Records)
Release date: April 12th 2019
Links:
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Just a couple months short of two years after they released their critically highly acclaimed debut album "Persistence Of Memory" the Leicester based post-rock trio FINAL COIL are already back with a new album. The ensemble have received great reviews ever since they launched their debut, which caused them to be mentioned alongside acts like Tool, Anathema, Pink Floyd, Alice In Chains and Riverside.

"The World We Left Behind For Others" is a concept album, and is based upon the passing of a member in the family of guitarist and frontman Phil Stiles, and a pair of letters that cast a light upon a previously unknown period in said person's life, as well as describing the difficulties and social attitudes that women had to face and accept regardless of the situations they were in at that time. Sounds like a brilliant concept to explore, musically, lyrically and sonically, and though I must admit I have very little experience with listening to post-rock, I am really looking forward to the album.

"Ash's" serves as an intro, and does not take long before I find myself swallowed by the melancholic atmosphere it creates. "The Last Battle" is a delightfully dark track with a lot of exciting textures, and I am tempted to add Opeth to the list of references, especially because of the vocals. Wonderful track.

"Scattered Dust" is a bit more progressive piece of work, this one too with a strong Opethesque feel, first and foremost during the verses. I love the contrast between the more mellow sounding verses and energetic choruses, but they still manage to retain the dark mysticism that proves to be a constant throughout the album.

To be perfectly honest, there is not a single weak track on the album. The album is well produced, and with so many layers and textures you would probably think it is a difficult album to listen to. But no. It all fits and flows together perfectly, and though it might need a few spins before you "get it", it is truly a wonderful first meeting with FINAL COIL.

This review is only based on a digital version of the album, with no artwork or booklet to complement the music, so I believe I have yet to experience the complete journey that this album creates. Nevertheless, FINAL COIL has created a very strong sophomore album, and any praise they get is more than well deserved. CD ordered!

★★★★★★★★★★

Tracklist:
1. Ash's
2. The Last Battle
3. Scattered Dust
4. Take Me For A Walk
5. Empty Handed
6. Keeping Going
7. Convicted Of The Right
8. Ashes Ashes
9. One More Drink...
10. ...And I'll Leave
11. Imaginary Trip
12. The World We Left Behind For Others

FINAL COIL:
- Phil Stiles, lead vocals, rhythm and lead guitar, synths and programming
- Richard Awdry - lead guitar, rhythm guitar, vocals and programming
- Jola Stiles - bass guitar and flute

 - Barry French, drums