With his third full-length album “Adaptation”, Deer Park Ranger continues to evolve his brand of post-rock and deliver his most mature and sophisticated record to date. This album showcases his cinematic songwriting, in which each song seems to tell a story with the listener clinging to each twist and turn of the plot. Humphrey takes a more patient approach on this release, which gives his songs the space and time to build and cascade into their inevitable chaotic crescendos, and come down to their serene afterglows. Each tense moment seems to have a blissfully calm counterpart giving the listener a gratifying and balanced experience. His use of layers creates dense textures that allow you to uncover more with each listen and will make you want to come back again and again.

“Quick Study” sets the tone of the record and kicks things off on an intense note. Distorted guitars and layered synths swell over a driving drumbeat soaked in reverb. The progression builds to an almost orchestral high before dissolving away.

On “Shapeshifter”, perhaps the most cinematic track of the record, a minimalist lead riff and a tight groove beat are the constant backbone while delayed guitars sweep through ascending scales that gradually build to a glorious crescendo. For the second movement, beautiful arpeggiated piano work is paired with wailing guitars that soar to yet another high note. After nearly 6 minutes of intensity, the listener gets to unwind with an ambient outro that brings everything back to earth.

“Monument” and “Counterpart” both have two movement structures that allow the first half to set up their aggressive finishes. “Silver” uses repetition and menacing bassline to bring the listener into an uneasy place, until beautiful delayed guitars bring a sense of resolve.

Finally, the album closes out with “Home”, a nine-and-a-half minute winding journey that is both touching and powerful, and has a nostalgic and reflective tone. From start to finish, this album takes you on a journey that you won’t forget.