This is EP number two from Sweedish hard rockers Atlas, and it shows without a doubt that they know how to rock!
This is one of those records where the band picks the bits they liked from the greats of the past and put them together to create their own sound, and how! The music is bursting with rocking energy getting your head banging from the very beginning! On top of this there are some great hazy soundscapes explored across the songs to bring out a shoegazey hypnotic atmosphere. There are elements of everything from Metallica to Pink Floyd explored here, all of which works seamlessly together.
The EP blasts open with the slow burning 'Wermland'. Sounding like something between Lynyrd Skynyrd and Alice in Chains the track roars along with great power and massive dusty atmosphere. 'Black smoke' carries on the charge with interest as the speed and energy levels accelerate. Taking on elements of old school Metallica and Kyuss, the band thrash about with a good mix of calm melodies and full on blasts of rock! 'Dog with two bones' takes things to a darker place, the low tone growling mixed with some fuzzy, ambient soundscapes paint a hazy hypnotic atmosphere.
'Covered in gold' is a fast paced and energetic rock tune that is almost poppy courtesy of the catchy tunes an cheesy rock charm.
'A waltz' is a slower psychedelic / space rock offering, with elements of Pink Floyd and Jethro Tull the track explores all manner of sounds and textures before breaking out into an epic rock session! The EP closes with the powerful stoner rock infused title track, climaxing with an epic guitar solo!
This is one cracking EP that is bursting at the seams with energy while also having some deep atmospheric ambience. This is rock at its finest!
Check out Atlas's Facebook page to find out more!
