As an artist Townsend has never been predictable but even to seasoned fanatics this album may come as something of a bolt from the blue. KI (as in chi or life-force) represents the evolved vision of a musician who has always written heartfelt and powerful music. He has become associated with a huge heavy (or Devy) metal style, a wall of sounds reflected beyond the sum of their parts by delay. Famous for screaming melodies with terrifying power, Devin has channelled a wild variety of emotions in his career thus far.

  But never anything like this. Concentrating on a clean guitar tone and soft vocals he has crafted an incredibly organic and flowing album that harkens back to the lush and verdant Terria record but is more linear and song-based than most of his previous solo releases. Tracks like the meditative instrumental opener 'A Monday' and the foreboding 'Disruptr' are all linked together with subtle ambience, often created with a single lead guitar or taken straight from improvised studio jams. The album is in no hurry to erupt with the release of energy that is usually part of Devin's modus operandi. When it does, on the eponymous 'KI', it is a symphonic epiphany beyond words.

  This is the story of the album. Staples of Townsend's music - massive vocal harmonies, throat-tearing screams and glorious musical climaxes - are used sparingly here, magnifying their impact greatly. By favouring his clean vocals and using a guitar tone that prioritises clarity, Townsend showcases the instinctive songwriting that he is known for in a completely new light.

10