Sines’ music is both heavy and atmospheric, with a strong melodic component and clever compositions. Guitarists Matt Gelling and Caspar Hawksley bring some killer heavy riffs, but they are used sparingly, making them more effective when they hit. Their guitars are mostly used to build atmosphere and textures over bassist Lenny Regione and drummer Zed Crawford’s tight rhythm section. They can be intense, but also employ subtlety to great effect. Singer Caitlyn Hearne’s soulful voice brings another powerful and inspired dimension to the band’s sound.

The songs are excellent. ‘Survive’ begins with effects laden guitars that emulate keyboards. The verse and chorus feature a sweet and melodic vocal before distorted guitars and glitchy drums explode into the bridge. ‘Run’ takes a slow burning minor chord riff in the verse before Hearne’s chorus vocal runs through an off-kilter melody that suits the songs unsettling tone and subject matter. ‘Awaiting the Fire’ is a ballad that shows off Hearne’s impressive power and control. ‘Waking Up’ twists and turns through various permutations of distorted arpeggios and hard-hitting rhythms before an eastern sounding breakdown prefaces a descent into gnarled feedback. Stuttering double kick and locked in bass drive the song to its conclusion, underpinning vocal harmonies that blend perfectly with the distorted guitars. ‘Hold On’ has a sinewy classic rock riff that powers the verses while a melodic and anthemic chorus recalls 90s alternative rock. It’s a song of support for someone going through a rough time with mental health; ‘Rescue’ and ‘Survive’ touch on similar themes. ‘Run’ seems to be about escaping a coercive partner, while ‘Waking Up’ could be about breaking down old systems and societal conventions that no longer work. ‘In the End’ closes the album; it’s a soulful track that peaks with a shredding guitar solo.

Sines have blended disparate influences into a cohesive sound – jazz, soul, metal, alternative rock, and blues are weaved into the fabric of this excellent debut album, and despite the variety it never seems forced. This is one of the best albums of the year so far.