After a six-year hiatus, Pelican, the instrumental heavy-rock band from Chicago, has returned with their new album, Flickering Resonance. Released on July 15, 2025, the album marks a new era for the band, featuring the return of original guitarist Laurent Schroeder-Lebec, who left the band in 2015. His comeback has infused the project with fresh energy, resulting in a record that feels both nostalgic and forward-thinking.
The Return of Laurent Schroeder-Lebec
The absence of Schroeder-Lebec was felt deeply by fans during Pelican’s time away, but his return to the fold has rejuvenated the band’s sound. Known for his intricate, layered guitar work, Schroeder-Lebec’s influence on Flickering Resonance is immediately apparent in tracks like “Resonant Sky” and “Shifting Sands,” where his guitar lines dance gracefully above heavy, rhythmic drums and thunderous bass. His return has been credited with helping Pelican recapture the magic that made their earlier albums so beloved, while also pushing their sound into new and uncharted territories.
Pelican’s sound on Flickering Resonance blends the heavy, crushing elements they are known for with more ambient, delicate passages that build emotional tension. The band, known for their instrumental prowess, manages to craft songs that feel expansive and dynamic. The opening track, “Luminous Void,” showcases the band’s ability to seamlessly transition from crushing, atmospheric post-metal riffs into ethereal, delicate guitar phrases, demonstrating their growth as musicians.
A More Expansive Sound
What sets Flickering Resonance apart from its predecessors is its willingness to explore more experimental structures and melodies. While their earlier work was rooted firmly in the post-metal genre, this album introduces elements of shoegaze and post-rock, with extended, atmospheric intros and ambient soundscapes woven throughout the tracks. The album’s central theme of “resonance” is reflected in the way the music ebbs and flows, creating a sense of both tension and release.
“Flickering Resonance,” the title track, is perhaps the most ambitious composition on the album. At nearly 11 minutes long, it takes the listener on a journey through various musical landscapes, from dense, wall-of-sound guitars to somber, minimalist passages that leave space for reflection. This track, along with others like “Shifting Resonance,” reinforces Pelican’s ability to create a powerful, evocative atmosphere without the need for vocals.
Live Performances: Anticipation for the Upcoming Tour
Fans who have been eagerly awaiting Pelican’s return to the stage will not be disappointed. The band’s upcoming live shows are expected to feature material from Flickering Resonance alongside classic tracks from their earlier catalog. Their upcoming tour, which kicks off on July 18, 2025, at DC9 in Washington, D.C., has already sold out, signaling a strong demand for their performances.
Live, Pelican’s music has always been an immersive experience, with their intricate arrangements and dramatic tempo shifts creating an atmosphere of tension and release. The added complexity of Flickering Resonance will likely translate into a dynamic live set, where the band’s ability to shift from loud to quiet, heavy to ethereal, will create a captivating experience for fans new and old.
Conclusion: A Triumph for Pelican
In Flickering Resonance, Pelican has crafted a beautifully complex album that showcases their evolution as a band while staying true to the heavy, atmospheric core that made them a staple of the post-metal genre. Laurent Schroeder-Lebec’s return has undoubtedly elevated the band’s sound, and their willingness to experiment with new textures and styles demonstrates their growth. As Pelican continues to shape their legacy, Flickering Resonance proves that they remain at the top of their game, pushing boundaries and resonating with listeners in new and exciting ways.
