Arguably one of the most anticipated releases of the year, Circle Takes the Square's "Decompositions Volume One" is the first release by the band in eight years and, although not the return to form that fans may expect, is certainly an album that many should check out. Best known for 2004's "As the Roots Undo," CTTS's brand of screamo / post- hardcore made them one of the seminal acts of the early 2000s and the band's cult following grew to almost legendary status. "Decompositions..." has enough of what made you fall in love with the band in the first place and adds just enough new flavors to make you a supporter of the band moving forward. "Spirit Narrative" and "Way of Ever-Branching Paths" reflect the band's blending of male / female vocal interplay over technically sound and hectic rhythms. Fast tempo changes and subtle harmonies are apparent, yet the band seems to have shed the discordance that helped define most of their early material. While this musical development may alienate some purists, I find this to be a welcomed adjustment for the band and one that helps me appreciate the songs more. Anthony Stubelek's clear production allows the listener to break through the wall of sound and become acquainted with the sharp and well placed melodies contained in songs like "A Closing Chapter" and makes the sharp changes in attitude and tempo of songs like "Preface by the Signal Fires" feel less overwhelming and more digestible without compromising the integrity of the approach. Comprised of three musical "narratives," "Decompositions..." is a smooth and comfortable listen from start to finish and representative of a band interested more in its future than its past. CTTS has spent eight years carefully crafting the best material they can write and it shows in this record's material, display, and attitude. Knowing how easily this band could have pleased the screamo faithful by re-hashing material from old records, the fact that they are focused on their own development without regard for how it will be perceived is something I respect and see all too rarely in bands nowadays.
8.5 /10
- Joe