Impressing in its range of passionate rock anthems and quainter introspection, Crucible is the stellar sophomore LP from Deer Park Avenue. The project comprises sisters Sarah and Steph, Indian-American sisters based between Europe and the United States. “Crucible is about being refined like gold in the fire,” Steph says. “The whole album for us is a journey, and it tells a story of waking up from your life on the sidelines, wanting change, and going through the fire to let go of the past, becoming the person you’re meant to be.”
“Is this the beginning or is it over?” vocals wonder on the opening track “Cave,” swelling with pit-pattering percussion and brooding guitar distortion. “Don’t wanna take it anymore!” emerges alongside fervent guitars and magnetic synths, showing a fantastic cohesion between initial rhythmic-fronted ruminations and a peppier pop/rock envelopment. Crucible consistently enthralls with a range of lusher and invigorating moments, making for a climactic and consistently melodic listening experience throughout.
Highlights are numerous throughout, ranging from the brisk raucousness of “Shut Me Out” — fondly showing shades of Wolf Alice in its debonair vocal confidence and alt-rock passion — to the beautiful “Moon River,” a delicate and minimalist folk effort. “Voices,” with its soaring vocal presence and synth-laden charm, is another standout. Crucible wows throughout with its immersive songwriting and sharp, hook-filled productions.
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We discovered this release via MusoSoup, as part of the artist’s promotional campaign.
