It’s been 8 years since we last heard new Music from ††† (Crosses), but it appears that after all these years, lineup changes and global circumstance, the magic is still there. Chino Moreno (Deftones) and Shaun López (Far) seem determined to not let Chuck Doom‘s departure cripple their aspirations.

PERMANENT.RADIANT (Warner) gives us a glimpse of what both Moreno and López already said is the tip of the proverbial iceberg. They’ve said they have been as inspired as ever and that the fire has been rekindled, even after all those these years. As always, their music is better enjoyed in a dark, quiet room, via the best headphones you can procure and an open, clear mind. Their soundscapes often evoque of ’80s and ’90s synth greats, such as Depeche Mode and Nine Inch Nails.

Moreno’s and López’s chemistry is well founded, having been lifelong neighbors and friends. This trickles down to the sound and structure of their music, where everyhing feels compact and well thought of. The emotivity of Moreno’s lyrics compound with the depth of López’s musical composition.

Overall, if this serves as a window to future ††† (Crosses) music, we’re all for it. We’ve always been fans of Moreno, and this project is no exception. He’s a master of his craft.

Similar noise: Deftones, Nine Inch Nails, Portishead.