Review Summary: Alternate universe Pink Floyd.
Right out of the gate, Monkey3 turned out one of the strongest and most consistent contemporary European psychedelic rock band. Flirting with stoner rock at the right moments, they have built a dedicated fan base by touring with some of the biggest names in the genre as well. Very calculated and powerful, each record moved forward into their own cinematic sonic universe. What always helped, was the crystal clear and dynamic production. Over the course of the last decade, the Swiss quartet moved on to more expansive endeavors, focusing on lengthier pieces with more intricate structures. The progressive side took the forefront, especially on the latest LP,
Welcome to the Machine. A clear nod to Pink Floyd, the guys steered into the respective direction. As a result, we receive the round of riffs we’re accustomed to amid more atmospheric sound scapes and guitar solos. There is an overall dystopian Sci-Fi vibe to it, feeling adventurous, moody and slightly melancholic at times.
The album starts on a wondrous note with “Ignition”, featuring multiple intense progressions. Like a sonic rollercoaster, the guitars constantly push forward, being interrupted only by lush, ambient passages. Solos abound over solid rhythmic sections, augmented by fitting synthesizer layers. Centerpiece “Kali Yuga” starts with an early God Is an Astronaut-like lead, before transitioning to heavier territory. As it maintains a post-rock atmosphere throughout, we can also hear a subtle change in tone. A rather bittersweet aura sets in, becoming clear on the final epic, “Collapse”. This track owes most to Pink Floyd, especially during the opening section. The thrilling synths and David Gilmore-inspired playing evoke that longing sentiment we could hear on
The Division Bell for example. Huge riffs take over soon, expanding the piece, until it breaks down halfway into a groovy detour. The bass leads the way, while a keyboard solo graces us too. Several segments later, distortion returns, as expected, offering us a proggy coda. Monkey3 put considerable effort into crafting these tunes and the results are stellar. Even the two remaining, shorter cuts found in between these three mammoths are just as strong. “Collision” & “Rackman” deliver a more compact version of the psychedelic progressive rock goods, the latter being probably the hardest hitting one here. Five years lapsed since
Sphere, but it was definitely worth the wait.
Welcome to the Machine is the most ambitious effort the quartet developed so far and it is the most rewarding record in their catalog.
