Biffy Clyro, A Scottish trio, was always interesting to me based on their approach to music. Jast as Kings Of Leon, Simon Neil and Johnston brothers (James nod Ben) have started their music path with the raw sound, not caring whether the audience will like it or how big that audience would be. Today, they are closer to pop than rock, but they still sound cool.
On their newest release Ellipsis, you could witness the phenomenon that is conspicuous within the underground scene, which is a peaceful transition from the alternative to the mainstream waters. Recursive formula seems to have worked for Biffy Clyro as well.
Dissolving into monotony can not be predicted from the fantastic intro Wolves Of Winter. In my opinion, this is one of the most powerful hard rock numbers in the past five years, while the rest of the album does not deliver anything innovative. The presence of their previous two albums, Opposites and Only Revolutions, is too strong to ignore.
The construction of songs is still the strongest asset of the band whose sound is substantial and powerful. The extra flair is the ability of the guys to dive between genre. At one point, you have a feeling like you are listening to teenage punk rock band, and at the other moment, you are sure that you are indulging in some heavy metal with massive guitars and characteristic solo sections.
Catalog of this album includes country and banjo. Small Wishes is an interesting song from the perspective of a joke, since it does not fit the album. It is followed by a completely unimaginative Howl. Here, the band sounds like they have killed their muses. Luckily, the album does not suffer from the lack of good moments. Wolves Of Winter, with its brutal tempo and brilliant dynamic cascades, is not the only precious track on Ellipsis. Re-Arrange is a gorgeous pop ballade, while Animal Style serves intrigue and power. My favorite from the record is Friends and Enemies, an anthem enriched with choir singing.
Biffy Clyro did not lose that special something that made them both approachable and unique. Still, I was left with the impression that this is their third similar release. If they want to spur the interest of the audience and the critics, they will have to make a radical move and record music that is more challenging.
