Unreal/Cities is the new album by Akron, Ohio-based “passive progressive” rockers Relaxer. Recorded in one week during the Summer of 2016 by engineer Ben Vehorn (Strand of Oaks), Unreal/Cities finds the band turning up and branching out with a seven song set of heavy psych rippers that expands upon the foundation laid on 2014’s Lasers, adding even heavier riffs, more intricate arrangements, and the occasional conga overdub.
Opener “The Marksman” hits the target right away as heavily effected guitars and synthesizers (courtesy of contributor Steve Clements [Six Parts Seven, Royal Bangs]) howl atop a blown-out riff before the band drops the hammer on a swaggering riff met with Scott’s airy vocals.
With its bludgeoning tritone guitar line, “Crystal Garden” finds Relaxer at their most concise, striking a delicate balance between bouncy indie rock, progressive instrumental flourishes, and punishing stoner rock.
Album closer “Window/Path” has it all: an odd-metered progressive boogie riff to rival Edgar Winter’s “Frankenstein,” shouted vocals reminiscent of a fire breathing Jim James (My Morning Jacket), thoughtful piano overdubs, heavily processed background vocals, and a coda with a fadeout like the sun setting between the smokestacks and industrial remnants of the band’s Northeast Ohio home. Unreal/Cities, indeed.
LP includes digital download code.
Includes unlimited streaming of Unreal/Cities
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All I can really say is THANK YOU Dylan & co. for bringing new,amazing,dense,deep and interesting music into my life.I first heard about Earth through listening to Mark Lanegan 's book "Sing Backwards and Weep",the mention from Mark and also learning of he and Dylan's closely honed friendship and brotherhood of many years peaked my interest and I knew eventually I'd be embarking on this journey of interdimensional sound."Primitive and Deadly" is a masterpiece!!!!! monobri73
The Long Island metal band's third album etches arena-sized hooks into their jagged compositions, deftly balancing experimental and poppy inclinations. Bandcamp Album of the Day May 12, 2022