On July 19, 2013, Australian progressive rock band Karnivool unleashed their third studio album, "Asymmetry," marking a highly anticipated return after a four-year gap since their acclaimed "Sound Awake." The release was a major event for the modern progressive music scene, particularly in Australia, where the band had cultivated a massive and dedicated following. "Asymmetry" was not just another album; it represented a bold, deliberate step into more experimental and raw sonic territories. It debuted at #1 on the Australian ARIA Albums Chart, a significant achievement for a band operating in a niche genre, solidifying their status as one of Australia's most vital and inventive rock acts.
What it is
"Asymmetry" is a complex and challenging progressive rock album that pushes the boundaries of Karnivool's sound. The record is characterized by its unconventional song structures, intricate polyrhythms, and a dynamic range that shifts from atmospheric, quiet passages to explosive, heavily distorted crescendos. Vocalist Ian Kenny delivers a powerful and versatile performance, moving between melodic singing and aggressive screams. Tracks like "We Are" and "Aeons" showcase the band's ability to craft epic, multi-layered compositions, while the album as a whole embraces a rawer, less polished production style compared to its predecessor. It's an album that demands active listening, rewarding the listener with new details and hidden complexities upon each playthrough.
How it came to be
The creation of "Asymmetry" was a long and meticulous process. Following the international success of "Sound Awake" (2009), the band took their time to write and develop new material, determined not to repeat themselves. They enlisted renowned producer Nick DiDia (known for his work with Pearl Jam and Rage Against the Machine) to help capture a more live and spontaneous energy. Recording took place at 301 Studios in Byron Bay, Australia. The band's goal was to create something unpredictable and, as the title suggests, asymmetrical. They consciously moved away from conventional structures, embracing improvisation and a more chaotic, organic approach to songwriting and recording, which resulted in a sound that was both challenging for the band to create and for the audience to initially digest.
How many it sold
Upon its release, "Asymmetry" was an immediate commercial success in the band's home country. It debuted at number one on the ARIA Albums Chart, a rare feat for a progressive rock band, and was certified Gold by the Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA). The album also garnered significant critical acclaim, winning the ARIA Award for Best Hard Rock/Heavy Metal Album in 2013. Its success cemented Karnivool's position at the forefront of the Australian music scene and expanded their international fanbase, leading to extensive touring across Europe and North America, further establishing their reputation as a formidable live act.
Why it resonated
"Asymmetry" resonated with fans precisely because of its challenging and uncompromising nature. In a musical landscape often favoring simplicity and formula, the album was a dense, artistic statement that respected the intelligence of its audience. Fans of progressive music celebrated its technical complexity, lyrical depth, and raw emotional power. The album's themes of chaos, order, and the unpredictable nature of life struck a chord. It was seen not as a simple follow-up to "Sound Awake," but as a brave evolution, showcasing a band unafraid to take risks and deconstruct their own sound. This artistic integrity and commitment to pushing their own creative limits is what made fans fall in love with its beautifully chaotic structure.
Impact today
Today, "Asymmetry" is regarded as a key album in the modern progressive rock canon and a high point in Karnivool's discography. While it remains their most divisive record due to its experimental nature, it is often lauded by critics and long-time fans for its artistic ambition. The album has influenced a new generation of progressive and alternative metal bands, particularly in Australia's thriving heavy music scene. Its success demonstrated that complex, challenging music could achieve mainstream chart success without compromising its integrity. Songs from "Asymmetry" remain staples in the band's live set, celebrated for their raw energy and technical prowess, and the album stands as a testament to the power of artistic evolution.
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