Album Review: Tanjiir – Purnima (Self Released)

Tanjiir, the instrumental post metal group from Chicago, Illinois has announced that their debut record Purnima will be released independently through all major digital storefronts and streaming platforms on July 19th, 2019.

Founded in 2015, the group draws a wide range of influences from Post Rock (This Will Destroy You, Explosions in the Sky) to the new wave of Progressive Metal (The Contortionist, Tesseract) to produce a dynamic blend of music that takes listeners on an emotional journey though pain and joy, anger and elation, and tension and release. Purnima clocks in at just under 40 minutes in length and is meant to be listened to in a single sitting.

Set aside 40 minutes. Don’t distract yourself with anything else, switch them off, if need be and hit play on Purnima. An album that will leave you with that elated feeling. That feeling that you’ve just experienced something. An album that excites, intrigues and mesmerises. From beginning to end, it grabs hold and doesn’t let go but not in a threatening way. It’s not always comforting but its intent is not of malice. It’s a beast but one that rolls over, gives the sad eyes and begs for some petting. Just be prepared for the occasional snap or nibble.

Tanjiir are in control of this beast and they expertly keep it tame and compliant. From the melancholic melodies to the hopeful highs of guitar soloing to the ambient sounds. It’s a wonderful listen that fans of post-rock/metal can fully embrace.

It’s hard to pick a favourite track. The five on offer are so consistent and flow together. It’s as the band said, listen in one sitting as it might as well be one 40-minute shifting and changing track. However, certain moments do stand out. The super-morose piano and slight rumble at the end of Hypergiant is so good. Then we have the the searing heat of the guitar in the middle of Against the Backbone of Night. Both just moments where Tanjiir continue to leave you feeling so blessed.

One of, if not the best post-rock/metal releases heard this year.

Tanjiir – Purnima Full Track Listing:

1. This Planet Does Not Harbor Life
2. Hypergiant
3. On the Shores of An Endless Ocean
4. Against the Backbone of Night
5. Ad Astra

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