‘Symmetric Communication’ by Kris Gietkowski takes the listener to the early days of progressive rock when this label was the cue for innovation, with the musical rule book thrown out the window. Whilst Kris gloriously recreates Egg’s ‘A Visit To Newport Hospital’, his two other pieces ‘FX4’ and ‘Divided By Zero’ also show the prog template can thrive 50 years after its birth. Available from 8 October, see and hear more at Fruits de Mer.
‘Victoria Wonders’ is the new album by Finns Octopus Syng. Formed almost 20 years ago they take their the original psychedelic era. This LP sees the band embracing the Anglophile side of their influences, with a dash of Syd, Fortes Mentum and Paul Roland. Victorian Wonders is one of those albums which pays the listener to close the curtains and take the trip in one sitting. Victorian Wonders is released by Mega Dodo on 9 November. Available in a limited edition of 300 pressed on 180-gram purple vinyl in a gatefold sleeve, CD or download.
‘Escapes’ from Picturebox is fearless indie-pop with a Barretesque edge, tied to the lyrical theme its the album’s title. Gems include the stomp of ‘Divvy Cabs’, new-wave-ish ‘I Got The Pox’ and left-field pop of ‘Uniform’. Released on 21 September.
London based The Swagger are releasing their new single ‘Heart ‘N’ Soul’. Taking their lead from the indie Mersey scene and the Kinks, this track has an instantly accessible appeal and builds on the success of 2016’s eponymous debut EP.
Hailing from Bolton, Greater Manchester, The Newds‘ taster of their forthcoming album ‘Go Getter’ promises much. The title track is indie with 60s melodies, and I’m excited to hear their long playing release.
‘Extinction’ is the third full-length studio album by Chicago based rock band Moon. Powerful indie rock with a psychedelic tinge ‘There’s Light Here’ is a great sampler of a strong release that fans of the US alternative scene will embrace. Find out more through via moonchicago.bandcamp.com
The Ego Ritual, from Lincoln are currently recording their debut EP, for release on the American, Kool Kat Musik label. Going deeper into psychedelia with a modern rock edge ‘Chakra Maraca’ intrigues. It will be interesting to see how they branch out these ideas into long form.
