The Black String Theory – “Remission”

Remission is the debut full-length from the alternative power duo known as The Black String Theory. Drawing on the tradition and influences of such great English bands as Radiohead, Coldplay, Keane and even Muse, Scott van Dort and Mann Baldanza have created a lush musical landscape that fans of the previously-mentioned bands are sure to dig. Mixing a fair amount of electronic with driving guitars and fantastic hooks and melodies, this really is a good listen.

I particularly liked “Rapture” which works off a very cool drum loop and has a haunting, emotionally-charged melody that just really got under my skin. Also worthy of noting is the stripped down acoustic version of “A Lifelong Mystery.” The full version, which appears on the disc a few songs before this one, is good but I absolutely enjoyed the way stripping the song down allowed for it to breathe, taking on a much more powerful tone that I think makes it even more emotional and passionate.

I have mentioned the word passion a few times in this review, but I think that is the best word to describe this record; it’s really oozing with it! This is a great release and while not my usual rock/metal fair, I will definitely be adding this to my regular rotation. Check out Remission, you won’t be disappointed.

Track Listing:

01. Intro
02. This Clouded View
03. Taking Advantage
04. A Lifelong Mystery
05. Rapture
06. Losing Hope
07. Young And Free
08. These Things
09. Finding The Grey
10. The Lifelong Mystery (Acoustic)

Run Time: 38:54
Release Date: April 16, 2012

Check out the song: “This Clouded View”