It has been over five years since San Francisco-based Post-Metal band Giant Squid has released an album. Their last outing, The Ichthyologist (2009), was a highly-original listening experience. Lyrically, it featured an eerie concept story whereas musically, the album moved seamlessly between heavy and ambient sections. The album’s songs were so well-crafted it seemed questionable if the band would ever be able to recreate such a strong performance. However, with their new album Minoans (released Oct 28, 2014) the band has managed to do just that.

 

Minoans is another concept album, based on a proto-ancient Greek civilization. It contains all of the qualities that made The Ichthyologist brilliant, however it is not a simply a rehash, it is arguably superior. Minoans feels more focused and overall flows better. The eight songs feature eerie vocal interplay between guitarist Aaron Gregory; and cellist Jackie Perez Getz. The heavier portions contain colossal, sludgy guitar riffs whereas the slow sections are often pretty, with appropriate Aegean melodies. For Minoans, the band re-recruited former keyboardist Andy Southard. He provides a needed psychedelic presence and joins Gregory and Getz in the vocal ensemble.

 

The album is well-worth hearing! Recommended to fans of “Post”, Progressive Rock and Sludge. Notable songs: “Thera” provides a listener with a good example of the band’s sound. There is sludge, psychedelic, highs and lows and artsy execution. Great song! Also “Sixty Foot Waves” has an addictive dance-y swing and a memorable vocal performance.