‘Currents’ acts as a turning point for Swedish heavy metal and punk crossovers Atlas Losing Grip. It simultaneously marks the end of a significant period in the band’s history and the start of the next chapter. Recorded and mastered prior to the departure of vocalist Rodrigo Alfaro, the eventual product still sees his voice fronting each of the 14 tracks despite the acquisition of Niklas Olsson in the meantime.
It’s a bold platform for Olsson to acquire. ‘Currents’ pushes further than any of their previous material. It’s a musical statement of intent – albeit it an unforeseen one. Discounting the impressive vocal ability displayed by Alfaro, the instrumentation is more epic than ever before, while retaining its unmistakably raw foundation.
From the opening moments of six-minute opus ‘Sinking Ship’, it’s clear that ‘Currents’ is awash with musical confidence. Drawing from classic rock and heavy metal influences that mirror theatrical veterans such as Iron Maiden or even Metallica, the introduction gives way to a melody that demonstrates potential to put the likes of Rise Against – perhaps the closest mainstream comparison – to shame. Never is this more evident than on ‘Nemesis’ which moves from fast paced thrash punk to a classic rock inspired breakdown, eventually culminating in gritty screams emanating from Alfaro. Atlas Losing Grip successfully pull their varied influences together into coherent compositions.
It’s indicative of their charm. ‘Currents’ never once rests on its laurels, relying on surprise after surprise. The record retains its freshness throughout, despite a running time coming in at just over an hour. ‘Closure’ brings things down towards the half-way point, immediately following the aforementioned musical smorgasbord that is ‘Nemesis’. Lyrically exclaiming that “in the end at least they tried and parted on good terms”, it could easily refer to Atlas Losing Grips’ recent upheaval.
‘Currents’ is making a statement not dissimilar to that of Avenged Sevenfold on ‘City Of Evil’. Although stylistic comparisons are minimal – if not non-existent – Avenged Sevenfold presented an album that broke genre boundaries, switching musical direction at a moment’s notice. Atlas Losing Grip implement the same strategy – one that packs a punch in its sheer innovation and unpredictability. Just as ‘City of Evil’ saw Avenged Sevenfold make a play for the bigtime, ‘Currents’ should successfully push the Swedes further towards widespread success.
Ending on the eleven minute long ‘Ithaka’, ‘Currents’ is a mesmerising demonstration of musical prowess, confidence and ingenuity. It consistently surprises with its many unexpected twists and turns, and impresses with its often upbeat and catchy melodies that are just begging for a live airing. Underpinned by stunning guitar work by Max Huddén and Gustav Burn, the only thing left to be seen is how new vocalist Niklas Olsson fits into the fold. This is the start of a new chapter for Atlas Losing Grip, and what a start it is.
BEN TIPPLE