Mashing together various styles of music takes some serious skill, and the band Black Map seems to have what it takes. Hailing from San Francisco, California, Black Map came to be when Experimental Rock band Dredge went on hiatus back in 2014. Guitarist Mark Engles was looking for a new creative outlet, joining up with Far Drummer Chris Robyn and The Trophy Fire Vocalist/Bassist Ben Flanagan.
Together, the trio united their experience and powerhouse skills and released their Driver EP in 2014, quickly followed by their debut, full-length album, …And We Explode. An album that won them the Independent Music Award for Best Album Rock/Hard Rock in 2015, Black Map soon signed on with eOne Entertainment, hit the road in support of Chevelle in 2016, and now looks to return with their highly anticipated sophomore album in 2017. Their first album a part of eOne Entertainment, In Droves is set for release on March 10th, offering fifteen explosive tracks produced by Aaron Hellam.
Giving listeners a bang for their buck, In Droves kicks off with a dreamy build-up and scratchy guitar on “Transit I.” A prelude of what is to come, the single “Run Rabbit Run” comes next as an easy sing-along with growing energy. Taking a near-melancholy turn, “Foxglove” takes the spotlight next with a dark, seedy vibe. Gentle vocals and haunting effects push the mood to the max before they ramp things up for “Ruin.” Another single released back in January crashes in with a Punk-style intro before snapping drumsticks give way to a faster, swaying energy.
Abruptly switching gears, “Heavy Waves” is nostalgic and laid-back, while the ominous feel of “Dead Ringer” tells a story of losing oneself and disconnecting from the world. Seamlessly moving along, “Octavia” has a heavier, more rigid feel once the intro gives way to the revving guitars. Like a dire busy tone of a phone off the cradle, “Transit II” is a shadowy lead into Black Map’s latest single, “No Color.” Keeping up with the heavier vibes, the track is followed by the heartbreakingly lonely “Indoor Kid,” which displays passion and a sense of defiance.
Twisting and turning the mixed emotions, with sharp echoes, “White Fence” comes in before turning the energy back up a notch with pondering notes and rough instrumentation on “Just My Luck.” Next, “Cash For The Fears” is another swaying cut backed by intricate Flanagan vocals and deep lyrics pushing a darker train of thought. Then, finding peace and tranquility, the gentle “Transit III” features warped vocals that evoke hope amidst darkness. Rounding it all out with rapid speed and dangerous emotions, “Coma Phase” presents a tormented consciousness vibe, all while Flanagan’s vocals still provide comfort.
An unprecedentedly lengthy album, Black Map gives listeners a collection of songs packed with various sounds and feelings. Ambient, passionate, and hooking the audience in with a clear atmosphere, In Droves is heavy-hitting from beginning to end. While individual tracks are perfect for serving as a soundtrack during daily activities, the mood varies beautifully throughout the rollercoaster ride and demands undivided attention.
Taking with them the flair of what they did in their respective other bands, Black Map creates a sound all their own while still touching on various styles with precise detail. Those who enjoy the darker side of ambient, Heavy Rock must check out Black Map and In Droves now. For these reasons, CrypticRock gives their impressive second album 5 out of 5 stars.
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