Rock/Review The War Yaks - Bifurcate
The War Yaks bring catchy hooks, soulful vocals, and a generous dollop of saxophone to a new vision of what modern prog can be, with an electic blend of genres and influences and thoughtful, introspective lyrics. Fans of Steven Wilson, Thank You Scientist, Haken, Leprous, and Opeth may find something to love among The War Yaks' oeuvre.
The War Yaks' most recent album, Bifurcate, is a musical journey that explores the very human themes of love, grief, passion, and resistance while pushing the limits of traditional genres. This diverse rock album creates a deeply textured and multidimensional experience by bending and blending a variety of influences.
With the anime-inspired ballad "Codriver" as its opening track, Bifurcate makes an impression right away with its gentle melodies and poignant lyrics, demonstrating the band's capacity to emote with depth and tenderness. The song has a profound depth from co-writer Anthony Warga's saxophone, while Esteban Mercado's guitar work gently highlights the story with its nuanced and poignant lyrics.
The listener is taken on a trip via various musical environments as the album goes on. "Shroom Song" stands out due to its psychedelic jazz overtones, which produce an euphoric and immersive experience. The flute of Kristina Bacich blends seamlessly with the saxophone, providing an ethereal aspect that puts the listener in a dreamy, surreal condition. Here, the band's skill in creating intricate yet well-balanced soundscapes is showcased through the excellent blending of instruments.
The album reaches a strong peak with the snarling, guttural prog metal ferocity of "Bifurcate," the title track. The saxophone and guitar collide and converge in a spectacular exhibition of melodic tension and release, supported by Jesse Shaw's booming bass. This song personifies resistance and resiliency, two concepts that run across the entire record.
There is something for almost every musical taste on the audacious and inventive album Bifurcate. Bifurcate is an engaging listen from beginning to end because The War Yaks have created an album that does not only challenge and inspire listeners, but it also entertains them.