England’s Underdark has crafted a compelling narrative with their sophomore album, “Managed Decline,” released via Church Road Records on November 24th. This post-black metal opus delves into the long-term impacts of Thatcherite neoliberalism, portraying a bleak yet emotive story set in a post-industrial British town. Spanning over three generations, the album’s seven tracks, totalling 41 minutes, paint a vivid picture of societal degradation and personal despair.
The album begins with the atmospheric “The Past We Inherit, The Future We Build,” setting a sombre yet hopeful tone. This optimism quickly dissipates as the title track, “Managed Decline I,” unfolds, showcasing Underdark’s ability to blend harsh black metal elements with softer, more melancholic passages. The nine-minute epic is a testament to the band’s skill in creating immersive soundscapes that capture the listener’s attention and emotion.
“Employment” continues the narrative, focusing on the struggles of a miner during the mine closures. The track blends post-black metal with a profound sense of sadness, mirroring the desperation and loss experienced by the character. The music is both powerful and poignant, complementing the heavy thematic content with an equally impactful sound.
The album’s narrative progresses through tracks like “Matrimony” and “Raised For A World That No Longer Exists,” each adding layers to the story. “Matrimony” introduces elements of blackened death metal, while “Raised For A World That No Longer Exists” serves as a haunting interlude, setting the stage for the final chapters of the story.
“Enterprise” is a standout track for its dark and aggressive tone. This song encapsulates the album’s thematic essence, showcasing Underdark’s musicianship and ability to convey intense emotions through their music. The album culminates with “Managed Decline II,” a sequel to the opening title track. This closing piece combines despair, anguish, and a glimmer of hope, leaving the listener to reflect on the album’s journey and the poignant messages conveyed throughout.
The record is a masterclass in storytelling through music. The band has skillfully blended black metal, post-hardcore, and shoegaze elements to create a unique sound that effectively serves their narrative purpose. The album does not rely on catchy hooks or melodies but instead focuses on crafting a powerful and dynamic experience that demands attention and rewards repeated listens.
The production of “Managed Decline” deserves special mention. Underdark has achieved a raw and visceral audio quality that enhances the album’s thematic depth by opting for an authentic, in-room sound. The vocals, particularly noteworthy for their range and clarity, are a highlight, capturing the essence of the narrative with every shriek and growl.
“Managed Decline” is a remarkable achievement. It’s an album that not only showcases their musical prowess but also their ability to tell a deeply affecting story. The themes of loss, despair, and the faint glimmers of hope resonate strongly, making “Managed Decline” a significant and thought-provoking addition to the post-black metal genre. This album is not just a collection of songs; it’s an immersive experience that takes the listener on a journey through time and emotion, leaving a lasting impact long after the final note fades.
Track Listing:
01 – The Past We Inherit, The Future We Build (28th February 1972)
02 – Managed Decline I (1st April 1988)
03 – Employment (16th June 1993)
04 – Matrimony (27th December 1997)
05 – Raised For A World That No Longer Exists
06 – Enterprise (1st November 2004)
07 – Managed Decline II (2nd November 2004)
