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Pelagic are one of those labels where you can take a chance and dive into a band you’ve not heard of before and it’s very likely it’s going to be top quality. With six previous studio albums under their belt, dating back to 2006, GÖSTA BERLINGS SAGA are far from a new act, just lesser known currently on these shores. A quick listen to through their back catalogue gives you an idea of what they make – grandiose, progressive rock with a smattering of space rock influence and latest offering Forever Now is a further extension of that.
Whilst the likes of Ljud Fran Stan from their debut and title track Sersophane from their 2016 release veer more towards the progressive side of their sound, Forever Now is much more of a veer towards their space rock side. Indeed, it sounds like it would sit very well alongside the soundtrack to Flash Gordon in a very 80s sounding almost space opera setting. It feels like storytelling of the finest kind, a roller coaster ride through the stars out into the vast wastes and oblivion of space and the positives and pitfalls of the journey.
Everything feels just right. The production side is absolutely perfect for what they have tried to create, accentuating the louder and softer aspects. From the undocking and engine roar style opening synths of Full Release to the fast paced into fade out ending of Ceremonial, there is real depth and quality to the styling of the individual songs. Each is their own little part of the grander scheme, fitting into their own place and creating that entire big picture sound that the album as a whole encompasses. While there was little doubt over their abilities, both in terms of songwriting and musicianship, this is a big step up in terms of that bigger picture feel, where the whole feels much more than just the sum of its individual parts. It’s an actual experience, compared to a group of tracks put on to a single release and you cannot help but just be dragged along with it, whichever way the story decides to veer.
There’s a genuine feel of older times with a retro synth style that pervades through most of this release. Whilst less progressive in the main compared to a great deal of their back catalogue, this veer into space rock adds real depth into their discography, showing their capabilities beyond their usual skill set. Whilst their previous work has shown them to be very capable composers and skilful musicians, this step up into something more akin to a classical composition is a remarkable body of work. It may not set the musical world alight, but it is something of genuine worth to invest their time into for fans of the likes of HAWKWIND and their ilk, as well as those of a more progressive mindset. Just be prepared to open your mind and be whisked away with them across the Milky Way.
Rating: 8/10
Forever Now is out now via Pelagic Records.
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The post ALBUM REVIEW: Forever Now – Gösta Berlings Saga appeared first on Distorted Sound Magazine.
