https://www.popmatters.com/best-metal-albums-january-2023/3
Embedded in the Austrian underground scene, Phal:Angst have been quietly experimenting in the intersection of industrial, electronica, and post-rock. Their newest offering, Whiteout, sees them calm down part of their aggressive nature in favor of an atmospheric approach. The emotive post-rock structures and solitary piano of the title track establish as much. Phal: Angst fully submerge in this cinematic essence, combining the ceremonial progression with precise drumming and whispering vocals.
The electronic and industrial aspect further exploits this ambient leaning. “Severance” combines post-rock motifs with an industrial backbone. The same strategy is deployed to provide the pensive mentality in “Least Said, Soonest Mended”. Urban beats combine with ethereal guitar playing to create a transcendental experience, as is the case with “What a Time to Be Alive”, while more old-school electronica a la Font 242 creeps in with “What Rests Mute in Bright Corners”. The more aggressive connotations boost the delivery, with “Unhinged” calling on the more cataclysmic aspect of Mogwai, and a touch of Neurosis. Finally, the re-interpretations of tracks by Lustmord and Jarboe shine a different light on an already very well-done work. – Spyros Stasis
