As Everything Unfolds’ album, “Ultraviolet,” is a powerful and dynamic offering that showcases the band’s impressive musicianship and emotional depth.
From the opening track “Ultraviolet,” it’s clear that As Everything Unfolds is not a band that shies away from big, sweeping gestures. The song builds from a quiet, moody intro into a full-throated chorus, with vocalist Charlie Rolfe’s soaring vocals driving the melody. The band’s use of electronic elements throughout the album adds an extra layer of texture and atmosphere, particularly on tracks like “Wallow” and “Stranger in the Mirror.”
One of the standout aspects of “Ultraviolet” is the band’s ability to seamlessly blend different genres and styles. “All I’ve Ever Known” starts off as a driving, riff-heavy rocker before transitioning into a dreamy, atmospheric section that sounds like something out of a post-rock band’s playbook. “Rose Bouquets” has a distinct pop-punk feel to it, while “Infrared” features a haunting piano melody that wouldn’t sound out of place on a darkwave album.
As Everything Unfolds’ musicianship is on full display throughout “Ultraviolet.” Guitarists Adam Kerr and Owen Hill both deliver powerful riffs and intricate melodies, while bassist George Hunt and drummer Jamie Gowers provide a rock-solid foundation for the songs to build upon. The band’s use of electronic elements is particularly effective on “Slow,” where a glitchy, stuttering beat underpins the mournful piano melody.
Overall, As Everything Unfolds’ “Ultraviolet” is an impressive album that showcases the band’s musical prowess and emotional depth. The band’s ability to blend different genres and styles into a cohesive whole is particularly notable, and the album’s heavy themes are handled with a sensitivity and vulnerability that is sure to resonate with listeners. With “Ultraviolet,” As Everything Unfolds have set the bar high for themselves, and it will be exciting to see where they go from here.