Threestepstotheocean is an instrumental rock band from Milan, Italy, founded in 2006. 'Migration Light' is their fourth full-length and it's completely free for everyone to download. Of course, I suggest spending a bit of digital cash on it. Not only because it's definitely worth it but also to 'support the scene'. After all, these guys have spent countless of hours to get this music together and their DIY-attitude is loudly applauded at Merchants Of Air. The album is also available on CD and LP, but they're not free (duh).
Migration Light incorporates all the right elements to make this a quality post-rock album. Lengthy soundscapes, alternated with fericious metal riffs and blasting drums. Yet, these Italians seem to go even further. They are not shy of using blast beats and other black metal influences, raising the level of intensity. Here and there some Americana rock comes shining through and post-hardcore or sludge references are never far away.
What I like most about this album, is the immense level of stage-capacity. Although the album is very enjoyable in the comfort of my living room, I can image this blasting at live performances. Apart from the quiet pieces, this is pure metal, especially if played loud. This is one of the many possible directions that post-rock has been evolving in over the past few years and it's simply amazing. I can clearly see myself making an attempt at headbanging at one of their concerts.
With complex songstructues and a lot of variation, Threestepstotheocean have recorded an excellent post-rock album in the vein of bands like Pelican, Year Of No Light and The Ocean, or something in between them. The fact that there's no vocals, makes it even better. Who needs vocals, right? Anyway, if you're a post-rock/metal fan, get your hands on this release. No way in hell you will regret it...
Serge