Press Kit

Atmosphere and layering are the cornerstone of Pennsylvania's post-rock maximalists The Depth Beneath Us. Particularly on their forthcoming sophomore album Descent, the quintet finds captivating new ways to build symphonic guitar layers, vaguely reminiscent of how U2’s Joshua Tree created wide open, soaring sonic spaces. But the band also deftly combines this with post-metal structures, progressive melodies and emotive songwriting to make sweeping songs that build truly orchestral passages and crescendos.

Add to that Battles' dissection of electronic music, Russian Circles' dramatic metallic guitars, and punchy rhythms, and one can get a sense of this epic masterwork.

Descent is their new ten-song, 55-minute full length. From the pummeling opening riffs of “Trust Thermocline” to the time-twisting rhythms of the title track, it's clear that their increased ambition has paid dividends without compromising an ability to craft intricate and memorable songs.

The band reveals that the new sequence of material was carefully designed to illustrate a journey through the universal experience of conflict in its many forms. “Everywhere you look, there is a nearly unprecedented level of oppression and antagonism in the world now,” guitarist Matt Rockman reflects. “We tried to hold these experiences of conflict in mind while writing, whether societal, interpersonal, or romantic.”

Never content to remain in one mode for too long, the album also highlights how one tries to reconcile such pervasive conflict. “Some turn to diversions and distraction, others look to external adventures, and a few turn their focus inward towards meditation and reflection,” Rockman adds. The album concludes with a note of hope while remaining soberingly aware that regardless of how we navigate these challenges, people have historically been unable to put aside their differences for long.

Descent was recorded by Michael Washkevich at MDW Productions in Harrisburg, PA. The album was mixed by Steve Durose (Oceansize, Vennart, Amplifier). Frank Arkwright provided mastering at Abbey Road Studios.

• #11 - Best of Post-Rock 2022 — Post-Rock Central
• #14 - Post-Rock / Post-Metal Album of the Year (Audience Poll) — WherePostRockDwells
• #17 - Post-Rock Top 100 of 2022 — StonerJohnny
• Top 50 Post-Rock Tracks of 2022 ("Ahull") — Post-Rock.Instrumental
• Honorable Mention - Post-Rock / Post-Metal Album of the Year (Staff Picks) — WherePostRockDwells
• Nominated - Instrumental Album of the Year — Central Pennsylvania Music Awards

• POST. Festival 2024