Novagolde – “Novagolde” (2018) review
Novagolde – Novagolde (Self-released, 2018)
Novagolde just debuted their self-titled EP, a sweetly concise collection of psychedelic rock. Self-described as hailing from the “4th Dimension” (as well as Madison, Wisconsin) the four-member group has entered the indie scene with a lot to live up to. It’s one thing to claim a seat at the roundtable of psychedelia. It’s quite another to claim interdimensional status.
While Novagolde’s thesis as a musical outfit seems a bit overambitious and pseudo-intellectual, their music does hold its own. “Next Time I’ll Survive” takes on a gloriously brooding momentum with a several layers of bass-heavy guitar. A dark wall of sound emerges amidst the garbled riffing. The intermingling chaos of the percussion, effect pedals, and obscured vocals is incredibly satiating. With crucially high production value and musicianship, the space rock track gets the job done.
“Jail” is a step closer to acoustic grunge, if such a niche exists. While there is still a healthy amount of confusion with the track’s collaged vocals, I have an easier time distinguishing individual instruments. We’re left with a kaleidoscopic tune that may not push any envelopes, but, at the very least, entertains. This in itself seems to be a theme for Novagolde—nothing avant-garde. Just compelling space rock. And what more can you ask for?
– Gabe Kahan
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