In Silico is undoubtedly a step forwards from Hold Your Colour. Their debut was an album full of lengthy drum and bass expanses, with Pendulum's renown kazoo-like riffs. Songs that were more likely to be slotted into a playlist than listened from start to finish. In Silico considers itself as a full album, and as a concept, rather than just a collection of funky tracks. What that concept is is beyond me at times, but there is imagery that runs throughout the album that never strays into something completely different.
Pendulum seem to have learned to keep a lid on their explosive music. In Silico feels more contained and purposeful. Not only may this invite fans who enjoy something more substantial that simple dance music, but it also makes the moments where they suddenly burst into action all the more enjoyable. For example the build up to "Propane Nightmares" fantastic riff, or the abrasive "Mutiny" that alternates between phases of rock and dance.
But for me what In… more »

In Silico is undoubtedly a step forwards from Hold Your Colour. Their debut was an album full of lengthy drum and bass expanses, with Pendulum's renown kazoo-like riffs. Songs that were more likely to be slotted into a playlist than listened from start to finish. In Silico considers itself as a full album, and as a concept, rather than just a collection of funky tracks. What that concept is is beyond me at times, but there is imagery that runs throughout the album that never strays into something completely different.
Pendulum seem to have learned to keep a lid on their explosive music. In Silico feels more contained and purposeful. Not only may this invite fans who enjoy something more substantial that simple dance music, but it also makes the moments where they suddenly burst into action all the more enjoyable. For example the build up to "Propane Nightmares" fantastic riff, or the abrasive "Mutiny" that alternates between phases of rock and dance.
But for me what In Silico delivers best on is where the music is allowed to be carried away from itself. "Midnight Runner" is an epic dance piece that doesn't just touch down after three catchy minutes, it ventures into a second movement without loosing pace or interest.
And then there's "9,000 Miles" which undoubtedly is the best track. After a long build up of static repetitions, the vocalist sings suddenly of how 'home is in your arms' before the song sweeps away into a sense and feeling of movement and finality. Building from acoustic guitars and pattering drums into full-blown, beautiful dance. Long notes of synthesised horns stretch through the flutters of electronics with a slamming drum beat beneath it all.
My only gripe with Pendulum is that not only did they use the same drum beat throughout almost all of Hold Your Colour, they've even carried it through to this album! It's a shame such a talented group can't pull away from it, and on the rare occasion they do, it's a real treat.
All said and done, In Silico is a fantastic album that sounds more admirable and distinguished from your average dance music with every listen.