ALBUM REVIEW: From Voodoo To Zen – Tides From Nebula
Every so often an album sneaks up on you and leaves you stunned and dazzled in its wake. Over the years Warsaw’s TIDES FROM NEBULA have been plugging away at nurturing their sound, but now they’re on the verge of something spectacular with latest release From Voodoo To Zen. Arguably more electronic driven than rock driven compared to 2016’s Safehaven, TIDES FROM NEBULA seem to have found a winning formula for creating sonic masterpieces. Delicate and intense in equal measures, From Voodoo To Zen is a post-rock delight.
Lead single Ghost Horses also makes for a gripping opening track. With its moody electronic build-up it could easily grace the soundtrack of a Nordic Noir. The resonating buzz creates a sense of unease while other instrumentation is subtly introduced. Once the guitars kick in all uncertainty fades away. A wonderful tone occurs when the guitars and keys blend so effortlessly. Deep and whirring, the track escalates into a bright and confident track which is sure to capture your attention. The New Delta has a glorious progressive appeal which should leave fans of VOLA and synths pining at TIDES FROM NEBULA‘s feet. Beautifully composed, the track seamlessly transcends from brooding synths to shimmering euphoria. The delicate notes and its modest nature ensures each motif has its moment to shine. And shine it does! The New Delta is a blinding example of the exquisite sounds post-rock is renowned for.
Fans will already be familiar with the superb Dopamine when it was released last year to mark TIDES FROM NEBULA‘s tenth year as a band. It has been reworked for From Voodoo To Zen, making it sound fresh and exciting all over again. Beginning with intense atmospherics, it conjures the vibe of meeting a boss in a video game. The layers of electronics and distorted guitars sound sublime when the song drops into its alluring groove. When the huge wall of guitars crash in you will be transported back to the glory days of MAYBESHEWILL. Once Dopamine has dazzled your senses Radionoize is next to soothe your ears. The bass-tastic track could easily provide the soundtrack for a sunset overlooking a city skyline. There is a nocturnal quiet about it with its laid back pace. A beautiful and relaxed affair, Radionoize will seduce you with its bass and motifs.
If we take the title From Voodoo To Zen literally then we have definitely reached zen with the title track. Blissful electronics set the tone for a dreamlike song. The way the movements soar will certainly get the goosebumps appearing. Fans of 65DAYSOFSTATIC and MOGWAI will appreciate the airy ambience TIDES FROM NEBULA have achieved. The drums are outstanding on this track and provide the rock vein under the shimmering skin. Post-rock enlightenment is reached when a brass section embellishes the song. Utterly spellbinding.
The optimistic title of Nothing To Fear And Nothing To Doubt is reflected in the uplifting opening bars. Sturdy notes sing so crisply you can find comfort and optimism in their assured tones. It is just so brilliantly positive in general. There are happy undertones in the song which entirely lifts the mood of the album. Nothing To Fear And Nothing To Doubt is such a special track on the album, its sweet melodies would not fail to lift spirits. A meditative calmness descends in the last couple of minutes, creating a perfect moment to free the mind and absorb the dulcet tones.
Album finale Eve White, Eve Black, Jane is a strange affair but an incredibly captivating one. Assuming the song title was inspired by the multiple personalities in The Three Faces Of Eve film, it makes sense as the song takes on several personalities of its own. Beginning with an unsettling smattering of piano notes, it draws your attention and keeps you alert. Bold and stunning tones then overlap one another creating one coherent and resonant motif. Another ‘personality’ is a superb rock flourish which drives the melodies home. TIDES FROM NEBULA are such wizards at song writing and sound engineering, that each section still effortlessly melts into the other creating a unifying piece.
After ten years honing their craft, TIDES FROM NEBULA have hit gold with From Voodoo To Zen. The band’s talent and attention to detail will not go unnoticed, each element carefully considered and mastered to perfection. Post-rock in general is always famed for its unique emotional responses but TIDES FROM NEBULA venture into a myriad of moods and atmospheres ensuring everyone will find something to latch onto. With an optimistic tendency running throughout, From Voodo To Zen may just prove to be one of the most stirring releases of 2019.
Rating: 9/10
From Voodoo To Zen is set for release September 20th via Long Branch Records.
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