Today's pop music is very straightforward, leaving little room for experimentation. It is hard to find a band that has the courage to blend pop with psychedelic rock.
Australian-based band The Lovetones go deep into the psychedelic with their second album "Meditations."
The Lovetones are composed of front man Matthew J. Tow, keyboard and bassist Matthew Sigley, guitarist Serge Luca and drummer Chris Cobb. There is an abundance of musical flavor on "Meditations" just based on Tow alone, who mans the electric and acoustic guitars, the sitar, autoharp and also contributes to the percussion. Producer Jason Blackwell is even credited with playing the tambourine and hand clapping.
This album is reminiscent of The Beatles' acid-tripping days, as well as a mix of David Bowie, '80s piano rock and psychedelic space-rock. The songs create a sense of floating in the clouds, no doubt a pleasant listening experience.
Tow's voice sounds just like John Lennon in songs like "Pictures" and "Across the Sea." It's as if the Lovetones are flashing back to the '60s.
The band decided to experiment with their jamming, with an extended jam in the song "Sea Shanty." It starts off with a funky organ riff but then gets heavy into guitar and piano at the end that carries the song away.
The song "Come Home" is like a dream. The vocals and piano flow through the song in a way that would make the listener drift off into another world. It's not often enough that modern music creates these feelings.
The album's 14 songs sail through different tones and moods. With consistent psychedelic undertones and apparent musical talent, this album is a good trip.
Photo: Courtesy of Matthew Messina, from the RMBERS' Instagram page
