Australia's
Northlane find themselves at a crossroads on their third full-length,
Node. Vocalist Adrian Fitipaldes left the band for health reasons after 2013's
Singularity. Replacing him with
Marcus Bridge (also their chief lyricist),
Northlane almost wholly transforms from their metalcore origins to a more atmospheric and melodic -- though no less aggressive -- sound here.
Bridge offers more clean singing than dirty vocals. Collectively paired with a musically sympathetic attack that adds post-metal, progressive, and hard rock elements, the final result is more dynamic and multidimensional texturally, revealing maturity and confidence. ~ Thom Jurek