The Awakening
Intervention Arts, 2025
9/10
A long running South African gothic-darkwave outfit spearheaded by Ashton Nyte, this 12th album from The Awakening explores plenty of post-punk ideas that draw parallels to The Sisters Of Mercy, The Mission or Bauhaus.
The ominous mood of “Shimmer” starts the listen with well timed drums and a hint of mystery in under a minute, and “Mirror Midnight” follows with thumping drums, deep vocals and throbbing bass that moves with density and haunting rock.
Speaking of haunting, “Haunting” lands in the middle and emits dark melodies amid the swirling guitar and expressive singing, while “See You Fall” uncovers some beauty underneath the strong attention to atmosphere and dynamic musicianship.
Residing close to the end, “Not Here” is an intimate moment thanks to the folk ideas and poetic singing, and “Continuum” exits with well timed keys complementing the heartfelt singing that builds into an ebullient finish.
An often eerie effort that touches on gothic rock, darkwave, post-punk, electronic rock, folk noir and New Wave, every track present draws you into its sonic appeal and distinct ambience of gloom.
Travels well with: History Of Guns- Halflight; Black Rose Burning- The Year Of The Scorpion