Of all the bands that have attempted to create a crossover appeal for post-rock fans, none have had quite the impact that Hope of the States did with the release of their debut album The Lost Riots in 2004. Recently we’ve seen the attempts of Mouth of the Architect (too metal) and Moving Mountains (too emo) been dismissed by the post-rock faithful, proving how difficult this crossover can be to perform. With this in mind, it came as welcome news that four members of Hope of the States had created an ambient post-rock side project called Troubles, and since the band's dissolution in 2006, Troubles has become the primary creative outlet for these four musicians. However, anyone thinking that this project was to become HOTS sans vocals is very far from the truth, and it is clear from the very first listen that Troubles are aiming at a completely different target. There is no “Black Amnesias,” there is “Black Dollar Bills,” but there is the sound of a new band making some beautiful music.

Sen’taur is the second release from Troubles, and although it is a young band in essence, the history of the four members has clearly helped its development, drawing influences from the likes of A Silver Mt. Zion and Godspeed You! Black Emperor, among others. Using guitars, keys, strings, brass, and electronics, the sextet produce eight tracks of slow, burning rhythms and deeply rich melodies. Opening track “4th National Account” is an ideal example of this, with each instrument layered perfectly over the top of another, creating a crescendo full of poignant memories and beautiful scenery. Other tracks take on a much darker root. With a low hum and hypnotic guitar, “Spiritwitch” is unnervingly ominous, while “Furnace” contains one of the most haunting vocal samples I’ve ever heard, as a preacher talks menacingly about religion over a horror film inspired piano riff. You really wouldn’t want to listen to this in a dark room. 

There is a lighter side to Troubles, and even from the first listen it is clear that the band understands how to craft melodies so delicate that they can go unnoticed until later listens. “Onwards In Print” starts with a minimal guitar riff, bringing in some uplifting brass sections, before the multitude of string instruments takes over, reminiscent of The Fountain OST and Esmerine. “Kastenten” is a role reversal of strings and brass, and just when you think the track has nowhere left to go, in comes a trumpet harmony of unrivaled beauty. It is so simple, almost obvious, but that’s exactly what makes it so effective.

During the 38 minutes of the Sen’taur EP, not one drum beat can be heard, nor one rise in tempo, but the shrunk sonic environment is the perfect space for Troubles' specialized music. Every track creates an ambience that is totally enrapturing, smothering you like a warm blanket on a cold night. While some may find this lack of, for want of a better term, ‘action’ a little boring and stagnant, others will find it a wonderful, skillful fusion. While it is sad to think of the demise of HOTS, Sen’taur is proof that Troubles are well on their way of emerging from the shadows, ready to stake their own claim in the post-rock world.

-James Ould