Astronoid's mix of 90s indie, shoegaze, post rock and black metal is absolutely captivating. They are heavy yet melodic and they display amazing musicianship. 'I Dream In Lines' is glorious, its ethereal melodies propelled into the stratosphere by blasting drums. Unlike most post rock bands, they rely on differing speeds to provide the dynamics rather than volume. Vocalist Brett's vocals are gorgeous live and are reminiscent of Sigur Rós' Jónsi. Some of the guitar work verges on stadium rock. It is incredible how they have so many accessible elements yet sound so progressive and forward thinking. The final track 'Up And Atom' starts off as black metal but when the vocals kick in it takes on a more late 90s/early noughties emo feel similar to a ballsier Elliott meeting Mogwai, all capped off with a blazing 'Rust In Peace' style guitar solo. Incredible.
PG.Lost are a much more atmospheric proposition. Every song sounds like it could be a soundtrack to a film and evokes images of desolate landscapes. When they make use of electronic elements, they are similar to Zombi and are equally rhythmic. They even have a desert rock feel at times. The effects they use on the vocals (and I use the description very loosely) gives them a feel akin to a much heavier Sigur Rós. The vocals are essentially used as an extra instrument and it is very interesting. Captivating.
PG.Lost ****
Astronoid *****
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