ALBUM REVIEW: National Security Band – ‘Critical Sound Theory’

Over these last few years, US trio National Security Band have looked to adopt a more progressive and forward-thinking approach than many in their field. With their previous outings ‘Total Information Awareness’ and ‘Biomimicry’ exploring a broad and immersive sound that heightens their narrative-driven approach to songwriting, they have quickly become synonymous for more and more enticing releases over the years. And now ready to get back into the groove, they return with their eagerly-awaited new album ‘Critical Sound Theory’.

A concept record that explores the role technology has on our daily lives and the current state of human evolution, ‘Critical Sound Theory’ instantly hits home with its rustic prog-rock aesthetics. Opening up with the euphoric ‘Agastopia’ before kicking things up a notch for ‘Without You’, the band make light work of their direction as they turn out one beautifully composed anthem after another. Moving with this subtle elegance throughout, influences like Tool and Faith No More appear regularly throughout their dynamic sound.

While these kind of sprawling releases have become a strong part of their tenure to date, ‘Critical Sound Theory’ explores a far wider and more diverse appeal than their previous material. Shining with this incredibly dense and textured approach to production with every track, they return in one of their most confident guises to date here.

National Security Band’s new album ‘Critical Sound Theory’ will be available to steam from the 17th May.