Opposites (Deluxe)

The Scottish trio Biffy Clyro continues to fuse an expansive prog-rock approach with muscular, metal-edged riffage and engaging melodies. Opposites looks both inward and outward as it pairs angst-tinged introspective passages with anthemic choruses (sometimes in the same song). Singer/guitarist Simon Neil projects a tormented gravitas as he embraces his weaknesses (“Different People”), confronts the faceless terrors of modern life (“Black Chandelier”), and seizes a moment of heroism (“Sounds Like Balloons”). Jackhammer guitar thrusts and crisp beats underscore the wounded swagger of “Stingin’ Belle” and “Modern Magic Formula.” From the brassy flamenco energy of “Spanish Radio” to the soaring sonic architecture of “Biblical,” Biffy Clyro goes for a widescreen approach worthy of vintage Pink Floyd. Neil and his bandmates can also craft more intimate self-examinations, as “Skylight” makes clear. “Picture a Knife Fight” is the trio at its most infectiously poppy. Opposites covers a lot of ground artistically but stays coherent thanks to Biffy Clyro’s undeniable chops, galvanizing energy, and genre-busting ambition.