Orbs // Past Life Regression

Orbs

Past Life Regression

Equal Vision Records

4.25/5 stars

For their sophomore release, Orbs have presented a deeply personal musical journey. The genre-defying supergroup is championing their progressive platform with remarkable results. The band features Adam Fisher of Fear Before on guitar and vocals, with fellow Fear Before member Clayton Holyoak on drums. Chuck Johnson of Nightbear is on bass, while Ashley "Ellyllon" Jurgemeyer, formerly of Abigail Williams and Cradle of Filth, adds her distinct keyboard work to the mix. Erie native and Between the Buried and Me bassist Dan Briggs plays guitar. The thick, metallic guitar sound is polished, propelling the songs forward. Tracks like "These People are Animals" transition from classically-inspired arpeggios to off-meter breakdowns to soft, shimmering confessionals. Fisher's nasal growls have both a charming idiosyncrasy and an off-putting imbalance, especially amidst the water-tight musicianship. Lyrics are intimate and engaging, dealing with subjects like sexual psychology ("Dreamland II"), and gender dysphoria ("Peculiar, Isn't It"). The sound is accessible and addicting: a life you'll want to relive repeatedly. – Nick Warren