DOOL returns with their much-anticipated third album, “The Shape of Fluidity,” which pierces through the realm of rock with its bold thematic essence and intricate soundscapes. Following their explorative and critically acclaimed album “Summerland,” DOOL delves deeper into the philosophical and introspective with a record that challenges both the listener’s perception and their musical expectations.
At the forefront of “The Shape of Fluidity” is Raven van Dorst, whose life’s narrative of identity and transformation profoundly influences the lyrical direction of the album. Born intersex, van Dorst‘s journey from assigned gender roles to embracing a true, fluid self, mirrors the album’s core themes of change and impermanence, reflective of Heraclitus’ notion that “everything flows, nothing stays the same.”
Musically, the album is a rich tapestry of genre-blending tracks that range from doom-laden riffs to ethereal vocal lines. The opening track, “Venus in Flames,” immediately sets a stark tone with its grungy, stoner rock beginnings that evolve into a complex layer of sounds echoing the constant theme of transformation.
“Hermagorgon,” perhaps the album’s standout track, is a sonic powerhouse combining the mythic with the personal. The song starts with heavy, dragging doom riffs that seamlessly transition into a soaring chorus, reflecting the monstrous and the divine aspects of self-discovery. The duality of Hermagorgon—both creature and concept—beautifully encapsulates the album’s exploration of identity.
The instrumental craftsmanship is particularly notable. New drummer Vincent Kreyder brings a robust percussive foundation that complements the guitar work of Nick Polak and Omar Iskandr, whose riffs and solos create a lush, yet often haunting musical landscape. This is especially evident in tracks like “Self-Dissect” and “House of A Thousand Dreams,” where the interplay of string harmonies and gruff bass lines by JB van der Wal add a somber, introspective layer to the album.
Production-wise, Magnus Lindberg and Ted Jensen have outdone themselves, presenting a mix that balances clarity with richness, allowing each nuance to breathe and resonate. The auditory experience is immersive, with each track flowing into the next without losing its distinctive essence—a testament to the album’s concept of fluidity.
The album does wane slightly with the final track, “The Hand of Creation,” which meanders through a droning, bass-led soundscape that perhaps overly encapsulates the album’s theme of aimlessness and flux.
Overall, “The Shape of Fluidity” is not just a collection of songs, but a philosophical inquiry set to music. It challenges listeners to contemplate change, identity, and the very essence of self—all wrapped in a sound that is as variable as the themes it explores. DOOL proves once again that they are not just musicians, but artists painting with sound on the canvas of life’s uncertainties.
“The Shape of Fluidity” impresses with its depth both lyrically and musically. While it might demand a lot from the listener to unravel its complexities, it rewards with a rich, engaging experience that resonates long after the final note has played. This album solidifies DOOL’s place not just in the landscape of Dutch rock, but in the broader rock genre as a band that dares to gaze deeply into the abyss of change and reflect its myriad forms through their music.
Carlos’ Rating: 8.5/10
Tracklist
1. Venus in Flames
2. Self-Dissect
3. The Shape of Fluidity
4. Currents
5. Evil in You
6. House of a Thousand Dreams
7. Hermagorgon
8. Hymn for a Memory Lost
9. The Hand of Creation
Line-up
Raven van Dorst – vocals, guitar
Nick Polak – guitar
Omar Iskandr – guitar
Vincent Kreyder – drums
JB van der Wal – bass guitar
Recording by Magnus Lindberg & JB van der Wal at DAFT Studios, Malmedy (BE)
Mixed by Magnus Lindberg at Redmount Studios, Stockholm (SE)
Mastering by Ted Jensen at Sterling Sound, Nashville (US)
Artwork & Layout by Valnoir (Metastazis)
Shop
http://lnk.spkr.media/dool-fluidity
Available formats
“The Shape of Fluidity” is available as a 36-page hardcover CD artbook, Gatefold ltd. crystal clear vinyl LP, Gatefold black vinyl LP, and as a Digipak CD.
Link
https://allthosewhowanderaredool.com
Management contact
Ram at RAManagement ramathor@gmail.com
Booking contacts
Worldwide (except NL) luc@doomstarbookings.com
The Netherlands jaap@radar-agency.com
Live
19 APR 2014 Tilburg (NL) Roadburn Fest
