Elder – Innate Passage

Prog-psych rock veterans Elder once again aim to push boundaries embarking on an introspective sonic journey on the sixth full-length “Innate Passage”.
“Catastasis” depicts a surreal sonic realm through the recurring delightful harmonies and the understated atmospheric textures in contrast with the heavy weight of the wilder rhythmic rampage effortlessly enriched by the intricate guitar soloing.
The convoluted track “Merged In Dreams – Ne Plus Ultra” features a peaceful rhythm with chunky bass lines and wistful melodies flowing gently through borderline futuristic synths layers yet guitars can build a heavier momentum with galloping riffage and flamboyant leads towards a majestic finale.
“The Purpose” holds a contemplative mood as the melancholic guitar phrases and the dreamy synths arrangements become naturally entwined and even if the resulting enthralling melodic motif remains the main focus the eclectic rhythmic section will add some darker dynamics.
After more than 15 years Elder have developed a distinctive songwriting style further emphasized by the brilliant musicianship that render “Innate Passage” a delightful sonic experience.

Motorpsycho – Kingdom Of Oblivion

Longstanding Norwegian rockers Motorpsycho skillfully follow an elaborate progressive & psychedelic pathway on the brand new full length “Kingdom Of Oblivion”.
“The Waning Pt.1&2” is already a massive opener focusing on full blown fuzzy grooves and charismatic guitar leads that clearly enhance the fundamental role of the heavy rock inspiration while the soothing vocal delivery tends to amplify a soulful melodic flair.
The title track naturally channels a magnetic ‘70s rock essence as the steady heavy riffs thrive within a bewitching psychedelic maze ultimately leading to the vibrant melodic textures of the extensive guitar solo.
“The United Debased” marks another powerful moment revolving around the vintage vibes of the trippy keyboards arrangements and the groovy rhythmic rampage fueled by robust riffage while the slower passages evoke a hazy melodic mood.
Listening to “Dreamkiller” you can instantly space out as the atmospheric ensemble unfolds gently like a daydream in contrast with the significantly wilder combo of heavy guitar riffs and chaotic psychedelic elements.
“At Empire’s End” conveys a sense of melancholia with fragile acoustic phrases and eloquent vocal harmonies while the resulting softer soundscape is definitely spiced up by moody keyboards layers and warm melodic guitar progressions.
“The Transmutation Of Cosmoctopus Lurker” embodies a complex composition showcasing once again the band’s creative force that here confidently combines smooth bluesy rock dynamics and spacey atmospheric arrangements always enriched by the eclectic guitar work shifting from energetic soloing to unexpected convoluted progressions leading to interesting rhythmic twists.
The strength of “Kingdom Of Oblivion” relies on the excellent musicianship and the interesting blend of diverse textures & styles as Motorpsycho clearly aims to create a unique work of music through an experimental approach.