Description
Circles – The Last One – Vinyl Record
The Last One is the second studio album by Australian progressive metal band Circles, released on August 31, 2018, through Season of Mist. Known for their blend of progressive metal, djent, and alternative rock, Circles creates a dynamic and melodic sound, combining heavy guitar riffs with intricate rhythms, emotional vocals, and atmospheric textures. The Last One showcases the band’s evolving musical direction, emphasizing both powerful heaviness and catchy, accessible melodies. This album is marked by introspective themes, tight compositions, and an ambitious exploration of sound that appeals to fans of progressive and modern metal alike.
Circles was formed in Melbourne in 2010, and they quickly gained attention in the progressive metal scene with their unique mix of technical skill and melodic sensibility. The Last One is the follow-up to their 2013 debut album Infinitas, and it captures a more polished and mature sound. This release features new lead vocalist and guitarist Ben Rechter, whose emotive and versatile vocal style helped to push the band’s sound into new territory, infusing the album with both intensity and melodic depth.
The album combines elements of djent, with its signature syncopated guitar riffs and complex rhythms, alongside alternative and progressive rock influences, adding a melodic dimension. With The Last One, Circles balances the technical aspects of progressive metal with accessibility, delivering songs that are both heavy and hook-driven.
Key Tracks
\”Winter\” – Opening with atmospheric guitar tones and Rechter’s haunting vocals, “Winter” builds gradually into a powerful chorus. The track’s introspective lyrics and emotive delivery set the tone for the album’s themes of struggle and perseverance.
\”Breaker\” – One of the album’s heaviest tracks, “Breaker” features aggressive riffs, dynamic drumming, and a mix of clean and harsh vocals. The song’s intense energy and intricate rhythms make it a standout in the band’s catalog.
\”The Messenger\” – Combining syncopated riffs with melodic hooks, “The Messenger” is a showcase of Circles’ skill at balancing heaviness with catchiness. The song’s introspective lyrics and soaring chorus make it one of the album’s most memorable moments.
\”Arrival\” – A track that leans into the band’s djent influences, “Arrival” features intricate guitar work and a driving rhythm section. The song’s fast pace and aggressive tone capture the raw energy of Circles’ sound.
\”Tether\” – One of the album’s most emotionally charged songs, “Tether” delves into themes of personal struggle and loss. Rechter’s vocal delivery is particularly powerful here, and the song’s atmospheric layers create a sense of depth and melancholy.
\”Resolution\” – With its hypnotic rhythm and dynamic shifts, “Resolution” showcases the band’s progressive side. The track builds in intensity, featuring impressive instrumentation and a strong vocal performance that highlight the band’s technical skill.
\”Dream Sequence\” – A more melodic, contemplative track, “Dream Sequence” combines lush guitar textures with introspective lyrics. The song’s ethereal quality and softer approach contrast with the album’s heavier moments, adding diversity to the album.
\”Renegade\” – A high-energy track with a powerful groove, “Renegade” delivers heavy riffs and an anthemic chorus. The song’s intensity and tight musicianship make it one of the more aggressive tracks on the album.
\”Blueprints for a Great Escape\” – This track combines complex rhythms with a deeply emotional performance from Rechter. The lyrics reflect themes of hope and determination, with the music shifting between heavy and melodic sections to underscore the track’s message.
\”Alone With Ghosts\” – Closing the album, “Alone With Ghosts” is a reflective, moody song that brings the album to a contemplative end. The track’s atmospheric layers and introspective lyrics make it a fitting conclusion, highlighting the album’s emotional depth.
The Last One explores themes of self-discovery, resilience, struggle, and emotional introspection. The lyrics often reflect personal challenges, conveying a sense of searching for purpose and strength in difficult times. This focus on inner conflict and perseverance resonates throughout the album, with both the lyrics and music capturing moments of tension and release.
The production is polished, giving each instrument space to shine while maintaining the album’s heavy, layered sound. The guitars are thick and syncopated, often creating a rhythmic backdrop that is complemented by tight, precise drumming. Rechter’s vocals add a wide emotional range, from soft, introspective melodies to intense, soaring choruses. The overall production achieves a balance between the technicality of progressive metal and the accessibility of alternative rock, making the album appealing to a broad audience.
The Last One was well-received by fans and critics, praised for its melodic depth, emotional resonance, and technical skill. The album was celebrated for its balance of heavy riffs and memorable hooks, with tracks like “The Messenger” and “Tether” becoming fan favorites. Critics noted that the album successfully bridged the gap between djent and progressive metal with accessible, anthemic elements, showcasing Circles’ ability to push genre boundaries without losing their distinct identity.
With The Last One, Circles solidified their reputation as a leading band in the progressive metal and djent scenes, appealing to fans of bands like Karnivool, TesseracT, and Periphery. The album’s exploration of introspective themes and its polished yet heavy sound have ensured its lasting appeal within the metal and progressive communities.
The Last One stands as a significant release for Circles, marking their evolution as a band and their dedication to pushing the boundaries of progressive metal. With its blend of complex rhythms, melodic sensibility, and introspective themes, the album offers a journey that resonates with listeners on both a musical and emotional level. For fans of modern progressive metal, The Last One is an essential listen that captures Circles’ ability to innovate within the genre while delivering songs that are both technically impressive and deeply affecting.
First pressing on black vinyl. 300 copies worldwide
Brand new, never played and still in the factory plastic slip sleeve
Track Listing
Winter
Breaker
The Messenger
Arrival
Tether
Resolution
Dream Sequence
Renegade
Blueprints For A Great Escape
Alone With Ghosts
