The evolution of a band can be a delicate balancing act, and URNE's latest release, Setting Fire to the Sky, showcases this dilemma. With their third album, this London trio, influenced by Gojira and Mastodon, has undergone a significant transformation, but is it for the better?
A bold departure from their roots: Setting Fire to the Sky is a far cry from URNE's earlier works, SERPENT & SPIRIT and A Feast on Sorrow. Their debut was a raw, post-hardcore masterpiece with a unique blend of styles, while their sophomore album refined this sound. But now, they've ventured into unfamiliar territory, leaving their distinct sludge and post-metal influences behind.
Mastodon's shadow looms large: The album is a nearly 50-minute homage to Mastodon-style metalcore. Joe Nally's clean vocals, though improved, bear an uncanny resemblance to Mastodon's Troy Sanders. The band's musicianship is impressive, with Nally's basswork, Neyra's riffs, and Cook's drumming creating a tight sound. However, the creative spark that set them apart seems to have dimmed.
Formulaic and repetitive: Despite the high production value, the album falls into a repetitive pattern. Songs like 'Be Not Dismayed,' 'The Spirit, Alive,' and the title track start strong with powerful riffs but quickly descend into generic metalcore territory. The lyrical content, too, feels uninspired, with clichéd phrases like 'Be not dismayed and carry this torch forward.'
A few sparks of brilliance: It's not all doom and gloom. 'The Ancient Horizon' stands out as an exceptional track, showcasing URNE's potential. It avoids the pitfalls of their new metalcore direction and delivers a powerful performance. The album closer, 'Nocturnal Forms,' also impresses with its Mastodon-inspired sound, reminiscent of Emperor of Sand.
Collaborations: hit or miss: Guest appearances by Troy Sanders and Jo Quail are a mixed bag. 'Harken the Waves' feels like a tribute to Sanders' style, but it's a bit too on the nose. 'Breathe' fails to make an impact, with lackluster lyrics and an overall forgettable performance. These features seem more like a marketing strategy than a creative choice.
A controversial shift: URNE's new direction is likely to divide fans. While it might appeal to a broader audience and gain mainstream recognition, it risks losing the essence that attracted fans in the first place. Is this a strategic move to gain commercial success, or a genuine artistic evolution? That's the question that lingers.
Final Thoughts: Setting Fire to the Sky is a mixed bag. It showcases URNE's technical prowess but lacks the soul of their earlier work. The band's evolution is a tricky path to navigate, and this album might spark debates among fans and critics alike. Will they return to their roots, or is this the new direction they've chosen? Only time will tell.
Rating: [Mixed]
Label: Spinefarm
Release Date: January 30th, 2026
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