Album Review

Modestep – Evolution Theory

• 19th Feb 2013

Dubstep electronic rockers Modestep have taken the leap of faith and released their debut full-length Evolution Theory; admittedly dubstep/electronic rock isn’t my favourite of genres, but nonetheless this is a pretty damn impressive record.

Kicking into full swing with “Show Me A Sign,” Modestep really know how to provide their listeners with an explosive introduction. A slow fade in gradually builds to welcome echoed vocals, exploding into an electronic breakdown that quite frankly makes me want to jump up and throw some serious shapes. Despite a repeated structure, which at times can be predictable – similarly to next track “Another Day” – I can’t help but love it, particularly the final section that quickens in pace, increasing the bass through an infectious beat.

Title track “Evolution Theory (ft. D Power, Jammin, Frisco & Jammer)” is a definite stand out track, mixing rap artists with big bass beats is hugely successful and the electronics are just as captivating as the vocals; quite the guilty pleasure, especially the lairy dubstep that rounds off the track.

“Time” provides some breathing space, moving away from the massive beats featured in preceding tracks; still really powerful, if not more so by giving the listener a chance to sit back and fully appreciate the music, as opposed to it taking off at full speed. A captivating rhythm that is repeated through the majority of the track is complimented by softer electronics, keyboard and percussion, slowly entering a stage where vocals are almost on their own; building up into an emotive section that boasts a pretty mesmerising guitar solo.

Similarly, “To The Stars” and “Leave My Mind” are slightly calmer tracks but have a bit more sudden impact about them as opposed to “Time,” concentrating on the electronics at a tranquil rate but then introducing some energetic bursts from time to time. Final track “Saved The World” mirrors a predictable structure but it still works in Modestep’s favour: building up a slow introduction with bold, powerful percussion to welcome a heavy electronic beat, slowly fading out to draw the record to a close.

Evolution Theory is a really fun record, particularly in its first half where the tracks are much more explosive and energetic; although it has to be said that some of the calmer tracks are strong and add some variety to the album. I always feel that this genre can be predictable in its structure, but for a debut full-length Modestep has succeeded; that leap of faith is one that won’t end in failure.

Venue: Evolution Theory
Support Band: A & M Records