IN REVIEW: Turnstile - "Time & Space"

It would have been easy for Turnstile to turn in more of the same on their second LP (and first for Roadrunner), delivering a safe continuation of the high energy hardcore that got them noticed in the first place. As Time & Space illustrates, however, the quintet have no plans to stay confined to their expectations. While the roaring guitars and pounding drums that built the foundation of their sound are still the foundation of the album, there are elements of R&B, psych, pop and even shoegaze spread across its relentlessly entertaining 25 minutes.

Confining the more extreme experiments to small spaces (such as Bomb and Disco, two songs clocking in at a combined 71 seconds) means no idea gets a chance to overstay its welcome. It also means that the band has the freedom to take their sound wherever they want confident in the knowledge that they don't have to dwell on one style or sound for too long, because in a couple of minutes they're off to the next song, the next chance to surprise.

Of course, their greatest strengths are exposed when they're creating a joyful noise, in that sweet spot where their punk/hardcore fury meets the sunny alternative energy of, say, Jane's Addiction (Can't Get Away is the highlight that best fits that description). Elsewhere, stabbing piano punctuates the bridge of the propulsive High Pressure, furthering the predominant idea of Turnstile as they portray themselves on record and in concert; more than capable of laying waste but doing so in such a way that solicits more smiles than smashing.

With Time & Space, Turnstile are looking to grow not by treading the familiar, but rather by restless exploration; it's important to note that, in many respects, this band is still finding its way. So, while not every twist leads to positive results, the will to take risks in the name of evolution is wholly admirable for such a young band facing the pressure of delivering a winner to their new, high profile label. Time & Space can certainly be summed up by its album cover, as it's the sound of Turnstile taking a headlong leap of faith. Even if their "day one" fan base don't feel like catching them, don't worry; by comparison to their humble beginnings, there's about to be a sea of hands reaching out to Turnstile.

February 23, 2018 • Roadrunner
Highlights Generator • High Pressure • Can't Get Away