Review RADICANT “We Ascend” – EP – Markus' Heavy Music Blog

“Inspired by a term used in botany, ‘Radicant’ describes organisms that create their roots gradually as they advance, allowing species to mobilise, adapt and grow on any surface”; this is how the label information for The Radicant begins. It not only perfectly describes the name of Vincent Cavanagh’s solo outlet, but also echoes in the sound of the latest EP.

“We Ascend” is the title of this five-song release, reflecting multi-rooted songs with many influences.
Vincent Cavanagh is known as one of the main players in Anathema, the musical mothership with which he has released many great songs and albums. With Anathema now on hiatus since 2020, the frontman has time to focus on his solo project The Radiant. It is the outlet for the singer and guitarist’s creative flow with great songs that are miles away from riff power and metal.

Instead, Cavanagh releases music that is a blend of electronica, powerful beats and Cavanagh’s soulful voice. He creates sound collages that have a cinematic avant-garde vibe. There are many experimental moments captured on this album, which requires real focus to unlock its layered intent.

With ‘We Ascend’, The Radicant deliver an EP that shows some cross-references to the musical mothership, but at the same time goes much further. This album is far from the musical mainstream and therefore covers a niche that may not be of interest to the majority. Still exciting to explore though.