Crash of Rhinos
Knots

The Crash of Rhinos are five English guys (or rather, they were, alas, a few months after the release of the album in question they broke up, plunging me into utter despair, among other things). With their debut Distal, they made it very clear that Cap'n Jazz and Midwest emo are their daily bread, an album characterized by the first two tracks of enormous proportions, remaining tracks less exciting, a beautiful but not unforgettable album. Enormous technical prowess, some memorable moments, but great referentiality.

Knots is a whole different matter.  I wouldn't know how to give precise references in sound terms; what I can say is that if the emo influence is still noticeable (but to a lesser extent), their sound has become much more personal, the arrangements have become even more refined and elegant (and with the presence of two guitarists and two bassists, plus a drummer, I'd say the potential in terms of arrangements, indeed, is enormous and well exploited by these guys), there is a freshness that I haven't felt in quite a while in an album that could be categorized as such. 

 As in the previous album, all five members take their turn behind the microphone, providing a certain variety in the vocal lines, excellent work in choirs and counterpoints. The songs flow wonderfully, between more "sunny" moments and others more melancholic, sometimes sweeter, sometimes more energetic. As you continue listening, it becomes clear that these are frighteningly skilled musicians, but they never throw it in your face by boring with virtuosic detours, rather, they always get straight to the point and use their abilities totally in service of the song. A special merit goes to a possessed and incredibly inspired drummer in his patterns, especially in a genre of music where it's easy to fall into clichés.

 By the way, I had the chance to see them live shortly before the breakup, an incredible concert, great emotional depth, total warmth (also among the audience, something I see increasingly rarely in small settings). I am still in mourning for their breakup.

 In any case, for those who want to feel some rock (I want to stop here because talking about emo would be reductive, and I wouldn't know what else to cite) of quality, fresh, emotional, and exciting, this album is a total must.