Vexier, the sophomore full-length from Switzerland’s enigmatic post-metal / doomgaze / experimental rock outfit E-L-R (Prophecy Productions), is a record that takes its time to get where it needs to. The record features five tracks spanning a total of 45 minutes; the shortest song is more than six-and-a-half minutes.
From the swamps of Louisiana, legendary New Orleans sludgelords Crowbar return with another collection of songs so uncompromisingly heavy that each one arrives with its own gravitational pull. As entirely expected, Zero and Below (MNRK Heavy), the band’s twelfth full-length studio release pulls absolutely no punches, delivering even more high-quality riffage with the same single-minded determination that saw them smash their way onto the scene over thirty years ago.
As if torn from the comic book origins I obsessed over as a child, Spirit Adrift’s past, like their members identities are shrouded deep in mystery. I didn’t know much about these newly signed to Prosthetic Records purveyors of the finest psychedelic doom we have heard in a long time, going in. But what I can tell you with certainty: with just two songs this band is ready to knock the US doom scene flat on its ass.
Comprised of the cryptically named JK on guitar and vocals, UB on drums, and DD on bass, and ascribing to the ancient philosophy of “Musica Universalis”, the band is as ambitious with songwriting, especially as they are secretive. obviously wishing to just suck you into their tractor beam with only the music, these songs are immense feeling. Behind Beyond clocks in at a nearly 28 minutes combined. Every note, trilled guitar riff, swooping bass glide, or crashing cymbal hit is deliberate, but very loose sounding too. ‘Specter of Ruin’ leads off with a contemplative plucked riff and an almost nautical feel, before the riffs smash your ears apart. JK’s otherworldly singing voice and harmonies are excellent. I actually wonder what the band will do live, since these vocals are crucial to the sound. After a chilled out mid-section it advances to a marching waltz cadence, and some more amazing riffs. The major key and the epic sounding drums are downright sunny and uplifting.
‘Perpetual Passage’ is even more obtuse and eerie. A very somber opening is more in the vein of trad doom influences. JK’s lead playing is the icing on the cake for the entire release. Just close your eyes and soak in the glory. suddenly the band jumps a few more decades ahead flavor-wise, praying to the altar of Matt Pike, the Jehovah of all jammage. Fully formed, the song is as big as the celestial bodies the band references. The end of the track swells and recedes over and over in your head like a mantra.
If this is just the start of what Spirit Adrift is going to offer us, I cannot wait for their full-length to arrive later this year.
8.0/10
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