The Crystal Castles ‘sound’, despite its recognizability, is one that is ever so hard to define. Anyone that’s been slightly acquainted with the Canadian electronic experimental band’s vast library of releases should be able to identify a song, but might have trouble when it comes to describing why it is so distinct. Perhaps it’s because when listening, one is never quite sure whether they feel like they are in a graveyard, a frosted winter field, or a palace made of icicles. Such unique music naturally creates a unique feeling, however chilling or energetic the sound may be.

4 years on from their first eponymous release and 2 years from their second, also eponymous release (Crystal Castles (I) and Crystal Castles (II), respectively), producer Ethan Kath and vocalist Alice Glass make a return with their third LP, (III). Surprisingly, the decision to have 3 self titled releases in a row isn’t the strangest thing about the band by far. If you can manage to get past the eery cover art and the unsettling track names (Transgender, Plague and Child I Will Hurt You, to name a few), this may just be an album you could enjoy. From just reading a few other reviews, it’s easy to tell that it’s simply a matter of opinion. Implied by the album name, this release is essentially the third part of something much larger, therefore I would even recommend that a new and likely undecided listener should start at the very beginning to better understand the entire feeling of the band.

Unfortunately, I feel that to get the best out of (III), it is required that the listener have some previous understanding of Crystal Castles’ exact character. With the experience I had already had before even pressing play, I was able to listen without any feel of panic or distaste and notice the structure that all three albums carefully follow. Initially, one may be put off by the muffled vocals, or the pure abrasiveness that some of the songs have. Yes, all of the tracks have lyrics, but any previous listeners will be able to understand that Crystal Castles isn’t trying to make any sort of social statement with its music, but simply build onto the beat and create the enchanting atmosphere that makes the music so unique. The requirement for understanding is by far this band’s greatest asset and at the same time, its most unfortunate downfall – all depending on the listener. Unlike (I) or even (II), (III) simply does not work as a standalone album, but already established fans will not be disappointed. Like every other aspect of this band, it’s something strange.

If you aren’t put off by the word ‘experimental’ and don’t care too much about meaning or impactful words, then by all means, give Crystal Castles a listen. If you’ve heard Crystal Castles (I) and (II), then you’ll certainly find that (III) fits exactly where it should. It’s the same shimmery, chilling feeling that makes the Crystal Castles sound so special. 4/5