Artist: Axxa/Abraxas
Release: Axxa/Abraxas
Release Date: 4th March
Axxa/Abraxas is a self titled art/pop project created by the innovative mind that is 23 year old Ben Alsbury. Whilst Ben has sourced 60s pop, punk rock, post-rock and psychedelic music as a huge influence upon the new wave sound he is creating, it is apparent from the word go that he is determined to create a new and youthful interpretation of genres that have been and gone. The artist is sure to leave his stamp upon the music industry.
The sunny and psychedelic sound that the listener is about to witness when picking up the ‘Axxa/Abraxas debut album’ demonstrates a reminiscence of the past. When listening to the album, it’s as if you are being taken back in time, back to the period of 60s psych-pop… but it’s different this time. Take the 60s psych-pop sound that we are all so familiar with and add a hint of punk and rock, what would usually be considered as a recipe for disaster, suddenly seems pleasant and easy to listen to. Blending the genres is usually unheard of, which is perhaps why it was such a surprise to enjoy the upbeat and catchy sounds that Axxa/Abraxas has produced throughout his new album.
The 40.14 minute – 10 track debut album will undoubtedly take you on a journey. Get ready to halt the breaks and listen up. The album kick-starts with ‘Ryan Michalak (Is Coming to Town)’ – a mellow, yet upbeat and rhythmic (often acoustic) track and advances into ‘Going Forth’ – a fast paced psych ‘rock n roll’ song which you could only imagine appearing on Radio 1 at 2am in the morning. Yes, that mysterious time in the morning when they play either ridiculously repetitive dubstep tracks OR chilled, mellow songs to ease the stress of a hard Friday at work. Further songs on the album include ‘I Almost Fell’, ‘Beyond the Wind’, ‘Same Signs’, ‘So Far Away’, ‘Ride Into The Night’, ‘Painted Blue’, ‘On The Run’ and finally, ‘All That’s Passed’.
Axxa/Abraxas is both musically and visually stimulating. His DIY ethic is enhanced and made very apparent throughout this album (his musical and artistic ability is inevitable). Overall, the album is unusual, yet catchy and in all honestly, very much like marmite. You are either going to love it or you’re going to hate it.
6/10
Reviewer- Kim Dibble
