Over the course of the past decade, UpCDownC have gotten together, broken up, realigned, gone digital and experimented with a longer name, but in all this time, they’ve never stopped rocking. Black Sea is the proof. With a host of classics already in their rear-view mirror (namely And the Battle Is Won and Embers), one might expect the band to rest on its laurels, but here we are in 2014, and the riffs are just as strong, if not stronger.
Black Sea even includes a “classic” post-rock single that seems simultaneously nostalgic and new; “End of Every Film” was first featured as the lead track of an EP, and thankfully finds its way onto the album proper. Tender and short (2:26), the piece ends with a light coating of violins. While listening, one can imagine the couple embracing, the villains defeated, the spaceship leaving, the credits rolling, the viewers dabbing their eyes. UpCDownC has typically drawn attention for its louder moments, so this sweet turn is a treat.
Not that the band has gone AOR. The Black Sea also includes builds and crescendos galore, from the extended opener “Twilight Sleep” (build, build, build) to the presence of four tracks in the 7-minute range (you know what might be happening there!). Highlights include the melodic “Drive”, which alternates between both poles before changing tempo late, foaming and churning to a satisfying conclusion, and the metal-tinged “Z-More”, whose electronic breakdown provides the album’s most contemporary moment. Four vocal tracks pose an unusual question, which is whether to bury the lyrics in the mix or allow them to move forward: a question the band will need to address on their next work. Another question involves the integration of electronics, which has worked well for former touring partners 65dos. Our recommendation is to increase the contrast, but to avoid becoming all things to all people; too many directions, and a band can lose its signature sound.
Longevity is a rare thing for a 21st century band, illustrated by the fact that ten years is already impressive. Personal factors, distribution hiccups, touring issues and the changing nature of the industry all provide roadblocks. UpCDownC has weathered the storm so far, and we hope that the band will continue to push its boundaries for years to come. (Richard Allen)
a closer listen 