Words by Ava Pearl
It’s definitely a treat to report on such an interesting group like Brighton-based band, Wax Machine. As of the release of their latest EP, ‘The This‘, there are seven members in the group, though the lineup is flexible. Currently there is Freddie on vocals, sax and synth, Izzi on vocals and flute, Toma on drums, Gigi on vocals and violin, Willow on bass, Harry on keyboard, and Lauro, who founded the project in 2015, on guitar and vocals. ‘The This‘ is what could best be described as a psychedelic journey into your deepest childhood fantasies…The four track EP covers a vast range of genres and can be comparable to works as diverse as psychedelic 60’s Dutch collective, The Fool, The Doors, The Beatles, MGMT, and Jethro Tull. With the mixture of experimental sounds and prog rock inspiration, this E.P is a trip in and out of itself!
Let’s start off with the first track on the record, “This”, the instrumental introduction to this song does a fantastic job of setting the tone for the rest of the EP, merging funkadelic grooves with a psych-folk undercurrent of whimsical wonder. The piece is unique in that it not only has a definitive tone but a flexible one too, the group moves effortlessly from one sound to another, even throwing in a part reminiscent of carnival music which reminds me of “For the Benefit of Mr.Kite” by The Beatles. Overall a unique and well crafted piece, definitely the perfect song for when you’re in the mood for a trip.
The second song, “That”, is one of the more interesting tracks on the release. The opening prepares you for the unique journey ahead, since the song moves up and down playing with different volumes and instrumentals. The piece is remarkably layered with different percussion and new wave solos making you stop and notice something new each time you go back to listen .The vocals of this song are so unbelievably dreamy, you can’t help but feel as though you might be floating floatily away!
The next track is my absolute favorite on the E.P, “Seed”, mixing not only elements of spoken word poetry reminiscent of The Doors’, “The Ghost Song”, but managing to do this while being cohesive with themes of fantasy, reminding me of Donovan or the Fool. Clocking in at over eight minutes long, this track has so many different elements to it, it’d be impossible for me to write each one down. Not only again utilizing different layers of sound but also making sure to incorporate heavier parts within the psychedelic piece similar to that of Pink Floyd. This piece is a trip and half, and every minute of the song is more interesting than the last.
The last song on the EP is “Other” which is definitely one of the my favorite tracks on the release. This piece is high up on my “must listen to again” list, reminding me of a bad trip in the most beautiful way possible. Again, utilizing spoken word poetry and heavier sounds, this track is more than indulgent with its use of instrumentals and it works exquisitely.
Overall, this EP is especially experimental, imaginative and unorthodox in the best possible way, impressively overarching many different genres and vibrations with only four songs. Each track is a different experience in itself and has its own character. Wax Machine have a wonderfully refreshing and unique vibe, while still maintaining that nostalgic flare of the 60’s psychedelic scene. I’ve definitely become a fan, and I’m sure you will too. We cannot wait to see what they do next!
Order ‘The This’ digitally or on CD here
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