Artist: Beardfish Album: The Void

Year: 2012
Duration: 0:0-1

A Critique of Beardfish’s “The Void”: A Journey Through Prog-Rock

Music has a fluidity that can transport us to other dimensions, showing us new perspectives and altering our moods. One of the genres that relishes in the fusion of different sounds, styles, and textures is progressive rock or prog. At its essence, it seeks to disrupt the formulaic patterns of mainstream music, daring to experiment with unconventional structures, odd signatures, and long-running tracks. Swedish band Beardfish is one of the latest additions to this genre. Their eighth album, The Void, released in 2018, has a rich melodic landscape that could either entrance or perplex listeners. In this review, we will explore the historical context of Beardfish, the core principles of prog-rock, the standout songs of the album, the most innovative musical parts, and our critic of the album.
Beardfish formed in 2001 in Gävle, Sweden, by guitarists/vocalists David Zackrisson and Rikard Sjöblom, drummer Magnus Östgren, and bassist Robert Hansen. The band started in a bluesy, psychedelic rock style, before embracing a more progressive style, intricating jazz, punk, and metal influences. They have released eight studio albums, with The Void being the latest one. The band was initially influenced by 60s and 70s rock, but they developed their sound into a more complex, polyrhythmic, and polyphonic approach. One of the most distinctive features of Beardfish’s music is the use of vocal harmonies and ensemble singing, creating a choral impression that contrasts with heavy and groovy instrumental backings.
In prog-rock, experimentation and unpredictability are the norm. The genre values instrumental virtuosity, epic arrangements, and lyrical depth. The Void follows these principles, but with a touch of pop sensibility that could appeal to a broader audience. The album has eight tracks, and it is conceived as a cycle that explores the different stages of human life, from birth to death. The opening track, “Intro,” is a nostalgic piano piece that sets the mood for the album. The second track, “The One Inside,” is a catchy and upbeat song that combines delicate piano melodies with powerful rhythmic changes and soaring vocal harmonies. Other standout songs are “This Matter of Mine,” which has a funky bassline and a rocking guitar riff, and “Gone,” an emotional ballad that showcases the vocal range of the band.
One of the most innovative parts of The Void is the use of various textures, instruments, and sound effects to convey the different emotions and moods of the songs. For example, in “Ode to the Rock’n’Roller,” the band emulates the sound of an old vinyl record, adding scratches and pops to the mix. In “The Raven,” they use spoken-word parts, soundscapes, and heavy guitar riffs to create a spooky and haunting atmosphere. In “Note,” they experiment with dissonant harmonies and syncopated rhythms, adding a layer of complexity to the song. Overall, the album is a sonic pilgrimage that challenges the listener to explore new territories and push the limits of their musical tastes.
While The Void is a remarkable album that showcases the talent and creativity of Beardfish, it is not without flaws. One of the criticisms that could be raised is the tonal inconsistency of the album. Some songs feel disjointed and lack cohesion with the overall theme of the album. Moreover, the lyrics, while poetic and evocative, could be more focused on narrative development and coherence. Finally, while the band’s proficiency in instrumental execution is undeniable, some songs could benefit from more straightforward arrangements that showcase their emotional depth.
In conclusion, Beardfish’s The Void is a vibrant and imaginative album that represents the essence of prog-rock. The album is a testimony to the band’s musical prowess, instrumental virtuosity, and innovative approach towards music. The album succeeds in conveying complex emotions and moods, evoking nostalgia, melancholy, joy, and wonder. The Void shows that Beardfish is an emerging band that deserves worldwide attention, and that prog-rock is a genre that could push the boundaries of music into new territories.