The Sun Still Shines Above Us: A Melodic Post-Rock Journey Through Melancholic Elation

“The Sun Still Shines Above Us” emerges from the depths of Explosions in the Sky’s discography, a musical behemoth known for its instrumental grandeur and emotive landscapes. Released in 2003 as part of their seminal album The Earth Is Not a Cold Dead Place, this composition transcends mere sound; it becomes an experience, a journey through sprawling soundscapes punctuated by moments of breathtaking beauty and cathartic release.

Explosions in the Sky, hailing from Austin, Texas, are arguably pioneers in the post-rock genre. Formed in 1999, the quartet - Munaf Rayani (guitar), Mike Comp (bass), Chris Hrasdzell (guitar) and Hamid Khan (drums) - eschewed conventional song structures and lyrical content, opting instead for instrumental narratives that weave together melody, rhythm, and texture into sprawling sonic tapestries.

Their music is characterized by a sense of epic grandeur, often building from quiet, introspective beginnings to soaring crescendos that leave the listener awestruck. There’s an undeniable cinematic quality to their sound, with compositions that seem tailor-made for sweeping vistas and emotional journeys.

Deconstructing “The Sun Still Shines Above Us”

“The Sun Still Shines Above Us,” like many Explosions in the Sky tracks, defies easy categorization. It’s a piece that unfolds gradually, revealing its intricacies over time. The opening minutes are characterized by a sense of wistful melancholy, with gently arpeggiated guitar melodies dancing above a sparse rhythm section.

Listen closely and you’ll hear the faintest glimmer of hope amidst the sadness - a subtle upward inflection in the melody, a hint of brightness peeking through the clouds. This duality of emotion is central to the piece’s power; it acknowledges the darkness while simultaneously affirming the enduring power of light.

As the track progresses, the intensity builds gradually. Drums enter the fray, providing a driving pulse that propels the music forward. Guitars intertwine, weaving intricate melodies and building towards an emotional climax. The listener is swept along on a wave of sound, experiencing a sense of exhilaration mixed with bittersweet longing.

The track culminates in a breathtaking crescendo, where all instruments come together in a glorious explosion of sound. This is not simply loudness for the sake of it; there’s a profound emotional weight to this climax, a sense of catharsis and transcendence. As quickly as it arrives, the intensity subsides, leaving behind a lingering sense of peace and hope.

Influence and Legacy

“The Sun Still Shines Above Us,” along with other Explosions in the Sky compositions, has had a profound impact on the post-rock genre. It’s been featured in countless films, television shows, and video games, introducing a wider audience to the beauty and power of instrumental music. The track’s enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to connect with listeners on a deeply emotional level.

Beyond “The Sun Still Shines Above Us”

If “The Sun Still Shines Above Us” piques your interest, I encourage you to explore the rest of Explosions in the Sky’s discography. Their albums, such as Tempi, All Of A Sudden I Miss Everyone, and Take Care, Take Care, Take Care are all essential listening for fans of post-rock and instrumental music. Prepare to be swept away on a journey of sonic exploration and emotional discovery.