Solace's 'Fading Failing Ruin' is a testament to the band's enduring legacy and their unique place in the stoner metal scene. With a career spanning three decades, Solace has carved out a distinct identity, setting themselves apart from the crowd. This album, their fifth full-length, showcases their evolution and the band's ability to blend southern charm with a folksy swagger, creating a sound that is both familiar and fresh. The album's title, 'Fading Failing Ruin', hints at the apocalyptic and infernal themes that permeate the record, and it's a fitting reflection of the band's journey and their music's impact.
One of the standout aspects of 'Fading Failing Ruin' is the band's guitar work. Tommy Southard and Justin Daniels deliver a masterful display of riffs and solos, showcasing their skill and creativity. The guitar duo's interplay is a highlight, with each track building tension and delivering slick variations that keep the listener engaged. The album's slower song structures, such as 'Spiral Will' and 'Beyond Below', create a sense of anticipation, and the anthemic verses and choruses are a testament to the band's songwriting prowess.
The addition of vocalist/keyboardist Justin Goins has breathed new life into the band's sound. His vocals, which draw comparisons to both Ed Kowalczyk of Live and Pepper Keenan of Corrosion of Conformity, add a renewed vitality to the band's music. Goins' crooning and conviction lend a unique flavor to the album, particularly on tracks like 'A God Changes His Plans' and 'Culling the Herd', where the band pushes tempos higher and emphasizes guitar theatrics. The rhythm section, comprising Timmy Gitlan and Mike Sica, provides a solid foundation, ensuring the band's sound is well-supported without overshadowing the lead instruments.
However, the album's length is a double-edged sword. While it showcases the band's musical prowess, the album's duration of over an hour can be a challenge for some listeners. The fifteen-minute track 'Wraths Object the Big Fall' is a prime example of the album's bloat, with its excessive build-up and lack of immediate musical payoff. This issue is a common complaint, as the album's other compositions also suffer from overlength. Despite this, the majority of the album remains engaging and showcases the band's ability to craft distinctive songs that crackle and pop.
In conclusion, 'Fading Failing Ruin' is a solid addition to Solace's discography, showcasing their evolution and unique sound. While the album's length may be a concern for some, the band's guitar work, vocal performances, and overall musical prowess make it a recommended listen. Solace's ability to blend southern charm with a folksy swagger sets them apart, and their enduring legacy in the stoner metal scene is well-deserved. Whether you're a fan of the genre or not, 'Fading Failing Ruin' is an album that deserves a spin, offering a unique and captivating listening experience.
