Greek space rock/psych/prog act Naxatras have returned with their fourth album, simply titled IV, and this time around they've added a new member to the original trio of John Delias (guitar, vocals), John Vagenas (bass, vocals), and Kostas Charizanis (drums), that person being keyboard player Pantelis Kargas. In addition, there are some female vocals performed on the album by Evi Seitandidou. Those new to the music of Naxatras are in for a treat, as the band perform an exciting blend of heavy guitar infused progressive rock, Pink Floyd styled psychedelia, and now with the added element of synths and keyboards, there is a heavy space rock vibe permeating the music as well. Kargas' influence can be heard instantly on the bubbling "Omega Madness", his synths dripping all over the arrangement as the band go for a sort of instrumental Hawkwind sound, and his haunting keys play the perfect foil to Delias' heavy guitar riffing and Evi's ethereal vocals on "Journey to Narahmon". Wonderful David Gilmour styled lead guitar solos litter "The Answer", a song featuring full band vocals, which give things a decidedly 'neo-prog' flavor, and the soothing clean guitar sounds of "Radiant Stars" work magic alongside some sumptuous synths for a spectacular Pink Floyd-ish instrumental ride. Other highlights include the dark, haunting prog of "Horizon" and the sizzling guitar artistry on "The Battle of Crystal Fields", IV's longest track at just under 9-minutes.
This latest from Naxatras is a lovely headphone listen too, as all the soaring guitar solos and synth washes just drift from ear to ear. There's plenty to love here on IV, a prog/space rock album that should definitely be on any genre fan's radar here in 2022.
Track Listing
1. Reflection (Birth) (4:36)
2. Omega Madness (6:50)
3. Journey to Narahmon (6:06)
4. The Answer (5:44)
5. Ride with Time (3:03)
6. Radiant Stars (3:15)
7. Horizon (6:54)
8. The Battle of Crystal Fields (8:46)
9. Reflection (Death & Rebirth) (2:38)
10. Shape of the Evening (3:47)
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