Investigator is a band that makes you think you know what they’re about after one song, when really there is so much more and you have it so wrong.
Formed from the creative mind of singer songwriter, Adrian Drew, Investigator are in fact a five piece from Auckland doing everything right with their new album release, Shade
If you’re familiar with their sound you’ll know their penchant for melody and darkness, an almost evolving sound each new verse or chorus.
It just works.
It’s no wonder this ended up being a ten track album - there is so much to unpack even two songs in.
Kicking things off, The Raiser gives you an instant driving riff. The tone is soft, almost playful and the vocals are light too. In fact, vocally it’s also really unique. The pitch and tone have some really interesting choices, but they work because they feel natural yet intentional.
As you dive further in, there are some other sub genre’s at play- at least what I picked up on. At times I felt there were some Shihad-esque tones, yet elsewhere The Mutton Birds. But don’t get me wrong, Investigator are very much their own sound, but I always like to think it’s one of the highest compliments for a band to have some elements of what inspires them to also create.
Stand out track (if you can choose) has to be Younique. Not only is that just a fantastic play on words with the spelling, but it has to be the most hypnotic track on this album. If this doesn’t draw you in from its placid, driving and compelling sway, then you definitely might want to take another listen.
There is almost a peak that it never seems to reach but that is exactly what I like about it. You almost expect it to become heavier, maybe something out of left field like a rogue riff, but it’s a song that holds you to the end. Very emotive.
In all honesty, there is so much more I could say based off of what I listened to, but in reality, go experience it for yourself, it just has to be done. They are a band who I look forward to seeing what else they have in store.
It's all about the melodies and soaring choruses, with catchy riffs & driving guitar. These are bright shiny songs with dark undertones, a juxtaposition reflecting life. The love, loss and societal stabs feature heavy... but within the dark brooding space there is always a hint of optimism.