Almost two decades ago, At The Drive-In were of one of the most relevant alternative bands until they abruptly broke up and went on what was supposed to be just a temporary hiatus. The undetermined pause period lasted for many years. The band has rendered a short comeback in 2012, which inspired them to gather again. It all resulted in new album.
Whatever came after Relationship of Command was under the magnifying glass as this album is regarded as the essence of the band. It was a very chaotic record obviously created under the influence of numerous drugs, and maybe that is why it stands as one of the most successful releases when it comes to amalgamation of post hardcore, punk, progressive and alternative rock. The list I have offered is maybe curt, but the point is that creative chaos sounded well-rounded.
In:ter:a:li:a is their fourth album, and the first once since the mentioned Relationship of Command from 2000. Crucial difference between previous comebacks and this album is that Jim Ward is not present anymore as he decided not to be a part of the group anymore. Such a shame, because the formation is not the same without him, and the absence is ubiquitous.
Although many were skeptical about the band’s ability to reinvigorate the chemistry they were capable of producing when they were recording in the past, we can only conclude that In:ter:a:li:a is not a bad album, but it will never reach the heights of Relationship of Command. The part of the problem may lie in the fact that everything sounded groundbreaking back then, and now we are used to creative madness of the group from Texas. The second reason might be that there is not one song here that can compete with One Armed Scissor. Maybe it’s just me, I don’t know.
The new album fluctuates along the line of familiarity – hardcore punk rhythm, permeatd with psychedelic and progressive melodies that jump out of almost every riff while Cedric is screaming as powerfully as twenty years ago. Vast majority of the songs do not have classic choruses, rather bridges and instrumentals that rule the lands of choruses. This format gives every member an opportunity to express themselves, but it also comes out as a huge minus for the record as it’s equanimity and balance spur occasional monotony.
Reunions can be a joke. Luckily, At The Drive-In proved that they are not a joke, I just hope the next time they are not going to repeat the joke, no matter how entertaining it is.
