A foreboding storm cloud dominates a golden sunset on the cover of Pirohia, the third record from renowned Kiwi experimental rockers, Kerretta. That imagery couldn’t be a more perfect metaphor for the sound that dominates the 45 minutes of enthralling progressive rock contained therein. The sunset, represented by the achingly beautiful slow burn of tracks such as ‘The Last Rivers’ is juxtaposed by the intense downpour and assault of ‘The Roar’ and ‘Iron Hail'.
While the trio (Hamish Walker of Avotor, drummer Will Waters of Meterman, and Jakob’s producer Dave Holmes) haven’t deviated too far from the prog-rock script with Pirohia, it’s undoubtedly tighter and more concentrated than previous efforts. Longer form instrumental rock can often run the risk of being overweight and even aimless but that’s a challenge this band are determined to overcome. Through the trimming of song lengths and the introduction of unique elements such as handclaps and even the use of Maori chants, Pirohia sets itself apart as something different.
Although recorded piecemeal and often from different sides of the world, the production on Pirohia is outstanding. Delicate but decisive in quieter moments but relentlessly oppressive when those clouds break and the distortion pedal gets stomped, each song presents its own narrative journey through a distinct dynamic. This, in the absence of vocals, becomes the song’s narrative. It’s a trick that few bands of their ilk can pull off with this much confidence but Kerretta have done just that, and in the process, created one of the year’s more impressive rock records.
Kerretta are playing at the Kings Arms Tavern on Saturday 22nd November. Head over here for more details and to buy tickets.
