Binary Order - Dunes

Binary Order

Dunes
​self-released; 2021

3.9 out of 5

By Dan Weston

Benjamin Blank aka Binary Order is back with a new album entitled Dunes. His new album is heavy, epic and melodic. I have to admit this style of rock isn’t something I hear as much these days. I would say about 15 to 20 years ago is when this style peaked with bands like Linkin Park, Breaking Benjamin and other like-minded bands. The artist takes some of that flavor and make it his own on this release.

The first song is called “Becoming” and is one of the more epic songs on the album. It's cinematic, fast paced and unflinching in its sincerity. There’s some blood curdling screams, huge pads and more that create a pretty intense introduction.

“Beautiful” is similar in scope. It’s a guitar heavy and Blank provides some of the most memorable vocal melodies on this song. The song is dynamic and contains a couple of well- done breakdowns which make the song more like a roller coaster rather than one peak. Next up is “Erased” and the intensity doesn't loosen its grip. 

There are some surprises however as the album progresses. The first change comes with the song “Anchor” and compared to the aforementioned songs this one is a slow burn of a ballad at least at first. The song is essentially one long build that increases with complexity before it spills over and drones of white noise are left behind with the reminder “And it’s just pain that’s left in me.”

“Dunes” is a six-plus minute ambient track. Even though we don't get vocals or percussion it feels like it's in the same universe of the other songs. It sounds like the soundtrack to a sci-fi movie where we might be visiting an alien planet. 

“Roads” and “Flood” go back into the heart of the album while “Rot” felt like the most single worthy song in the batch. “Calling” has its moment as well before we get to the almost ten minute “Demons” officially making this a sprawling album.

This album should easily resonate with a certain audience. If you’re a fan of any of the aforementioned bands or NIN, Evanesce, etc. this should be an easy win.

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