Isis - In the Fishtank 14

Isis is a relatively unknown industrial / hardcore act with a very experimental approach that, thanks to their opening spot on Tool’s most recent U.S. stint, has gained a growing mainstream following. What makes this 3-song EP so powerful is the band’s chosen partner for this project. For a group to be so compelled to choose a group that is so opposite as Aereogramme, and in two days produce such cohesive results, deserves recognition in its own rite. Few bands (and equally as few collaborations) ever achieve such a high standard during their existence, especially when venturing so far from their norm. So, the more ethereal aspect of the music that resonates throughout release, is of course attributable to Glasgow’s Aereogramme, who if you have not heard of them, you should definitely check out. What this does for any listener who has been lured in by (sorry - can’t resist the cheesey reference here) the mighty Isis’ musical prowess but still finds something difficult to digest in their music is to dissolve those harsher aspects, providing a much more mellow (this is something the Isis fan need know) and commercially viable, but yet still extremely inspired performance, without engulfing their presence (Denial, the EP’s second, and best, track still rings quite true to Isis’ roots). So, while I stress that this EP may not be for the Isis purist, what it does do is provide the band a potential exposure to a broader audience. Being one of those lured yet tentative admirers, for me it has brought a new-found acceptance for this group, which I believe will allow me to listen to their music with a more appreciative ear in the future. At the very least, the Fishtank concept / series exposes its audience to the potential in popular music and opens the door to some really exciting musical horizons, and as such really deserves recognition. I for one will definitely be keeping my eye out for future releases and encourage our readers to do the same. [www.konkurrent.nl]