“Bonfire in the Tempest” is Sword Tongue’s fourth EP to date and it is an interesting release that definitely stands out. The Oakland-based trio, which features Gaetano Maleki, Jennifer Wilde and producer and drummer Dan Milligan, weaves a web of post-punk, dark wave, and alternative rock elements, a blend that sounds highly successful on the “Bonfire in the Tempest” EP. The opening track is “Diamonds to Rust”, a mid-tempo, atmospheric composition that sticks in your mind thanks to its beautiful melodies, smart and inspired arrangements and the emotionally charged performance of the three musicians. Beyond this track, the EP offers plenty more compelling material: “Industrial Alchemy”, with its strong rhythm, tasteful guitar work, and catchy melodic lines; “The Skin You Shed”, driven by a mysterious and dark melodic approach; “Murder White Noise”, my favorite song of the EP, which stands as one of the most intriguing modern alternative rock tracks; and “We Are the Resistance”, a stylish, multi-layered song that reveals something new every time you give it another listen. The production is clear and powerful, giving each instrument space to breathe while enhancing the emotional weight and cinematic feel of the songs from start to finish. Overall, this is a new release rich in content, textures, and, of course, performances, from a band that is steadily rising within the realm of dark, melancholic, yet deeply captivating alt rock. An EP that will truly take you on a journey, far away from the misery of everyday life. I am already looking forward to the next full-length release of Sword Tongue!
♦ 8/10
Dimitris Zacharopoulos
