Arcane-Gel's latest EP, ‘For Now, Between Two Tigers’, the first instalment in their ‘For Now’ series, continues to solidify their unique ‘prog-hop’ sound. This guitar-driven alternative rap duo, consisting of Antony Castiello and Lucio Adger, delivers an evocative listening experience that is both introspective and emotionally charged.

The EP opens with ‘Proteus’, a track that immediately showcases the duo's ability to seamlessly blend disparate sonic elements. The opening melodic vocals give way to shimmering guitar lines and then explode into an alt-rap anthem, demonstrating their aptitude for dynamic shifts. ‘Red Thread’ dives into heavy emotional territory, with lyrics that paint a starkly realistic picture of familial discord and longing. Castiello's poetic complexity shines through, leaving a lasting impression.

‘Arborglyph’ is a standout track, defined by its contemplative atmosphere. The music evokes a sense of driving through fog, a balance of urgency and caution. The lyrics, a poignant tribute to a grandfather, are rich in imagery, with lines like "the bricks he laid still stand strong, but that building remains to remind me that man’s gone" sparking deep reflection. While the lyrical content is powerful, the vocal tone in the verses feels slightly misaligned with the music's subtle tension, though the chorus provides a more fitting match that more than makes up for it.

However, ‘Brutum Fulmen?’ presents a more significant challenge. While the verses and the initial hook are classic Arcane-Gel style, there’s a more noticeable tonal inconsistency throughout the track. The lower vocals and overall melodic drive feel slightly flat, not jarring, but noticeable enough. It’s not enough to kill the track, and its lyrical strength and melodic potential stand tall.

In the past, Arcane-Gel have already demonstrated a rapid creative output, but ‘For Now, Between Two Tigers’ is arguably the start of their most ambitious project. The duo's ability to craft evocative soundscapes and thought-provoking lyrics is undeniable, and their willingness to bend the rules and create new moments is constantly exciting.

For more from the duo, especially on the run-up to their two further EP’s, be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.