Album Reviews : Majora – Iridescent

Post-rock is one genre of music that, in my opinion,  bands need to constantly experiment with, to really stand out and apart; to carve a niche of their own. Four-piece instrumental metallers “Majora” from Newcastle are undoubtedly one of those groups of musicians that have tapped into the spirit of  progressive music creating a stunning and otherworldly sound that they can label as their own with their debut EP ‘Iridescent‘. It is a musical experience you are sure to enjoy and get lost in.

It begins on an intense, strong note with ‘Aurora‘ – an apt name for this track that triggers thoughts and visuals of the beautiful Northern Lights and phenomenons beyond our explanation. This band doesn’t shy away from the creative use of electronic sounds, intricately woven in with mellow leads and the versatile yet distant drum beats. The title track ‘Iridescent‘ continues this dynamic flow with an eerie, ambient intro that is so beautifully simple, the soft toned riffs progressing from one melodic section to another, eventually leading into a blissful soaring array of distortion and melody.

The ethereal sounds of ‘Grandis‘ would make it my pick off this EP for it’s magnanimity and atmospheric feel coupled with some lovely rhythmic guitar work. The transitions throughout are glorious- there are the delicate and subdued passages which, without warning, explode into post-rock euphoria(3.39). For a newly formed band, you will marvel at how professional and polished they sound. The thought-provoking aura of ‘Ritual’ lets you catch your breath in between, a mystic, mid paced interlude of sorts emphasizing the beauty of atmospheric, down-tuned guitars which really makes you explore any sort of emotion you’re feeling while ‘The Shaman‘, brings out the unpredictable nature of Majora, as well as their ability to dwell into much heavier sounds than you’d expect. Punchy bass lines forge through the more hypnotic little spurts of melody, the layers and technicality so overwhelming, it’s almost cathartic.

The closing 8 minute track -‘Thousand Yard Stare‘ summarizes the story that these lads are trying to tell – as it majestically begins with the classic Carl Sagan quote based on the historic photograph and his book – ‘Pale Blue Dot’. In all honesty, there couldn’t have been a better way to end this masterpiece. Those simple yet powerful words by Sagan tie together the essence of what Majora’s music communicates to the world; I don’t want to further dwell into specific details because that would just be giving too much away. However, their passion, talent and versatility reflects in the simplicity of their music and this is a major strength. The progressive elements combined with a haunting ambient atmosphere and the layers of breathtaking melody, sometimes venturing into the realms of metal but only just, prove to be an absolute aural treat and will leave you in a complete daze. Great things lie ahead for Majora, this EP is highly recommended to those that like their dose of experimental and progressive music.

Listen to ‘Iridescent’ and ‘Grandis’ – http://majoraofficial.bandcamp.com/album/iridescent

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