With “Far Away,” the Austrian outfit Lazer deliver their first full-length statement, released on March 4, 2026 via StoneFree Records. Positioned firmly within a modern Heavy Rock framework with clear Stoner and Heavy Psych inflections, the album presents a focused and coherent approach, built on weight, atmosphere, and controlled dynamic development rather than excess or stylistic overreach. It is a debut that prioritizes structural solidity and sonic consistency, allowing the band to define its identity without forcing unnecessary complexity. Opening track “Underwater” immediately establishes the record’s tonal foundation. A monolithic rhythm section anchors the composition, with deep, rounded bass lines supporting a layered guitar approach that alternates between dense riffing and more expansive textural passages. The arrangement unfolds through measured tempo shifts, maintaining tension without fragmentation. Tanja “Aunty” Peinsipp’s vocal performance adds a crucial dimension, moving between enveloping clean passages and more abrasive inflections, enhancing the track’s balance between Psychedelic openness and heavier, grounded sections. “Run Away” follows with a more direct and riff-driven structure. The guitars take a leading role, supported by a tight and controlled rhythmic backbone. The vocal phrasing alternates effectively between restrained verses and more assertive sections, reinforcing the track’s internal dynamics. The composition remains linear but purposeful, culminating in a well-placed guitar solo that adds intensity without overstating its presence. A broader sense of variation emerges in “Can’t Speak,” where the band explores a more fluid compositional framework. The track evolves through shifting sections that incorporate elements of Alternative-leaning Heavy Rock, while maintaining coherence. The vocal delivery stands out for its dynamic control, and the closing guitar solo introduces a more expressive, slightly more elaborate lead approach that enhances the track’s overall tension. “Sheeps In Clothes,” previously introduced as a single, represents one of the album’s more accessible moments. The band emphasizes melodic layering and structural clarity, crafting a piece that is immediately engaging without sacrificing depth. The chorus is memorable, yet supported by a solid rhythmic foundation and careful arrangement choices that prevent the track from slipping into predictability. With “Getting Colder,” Lazer expand their sonic palette. The track opens with a more atmospheric approach, featuring arpeggiated guitars and a stronger presence of keyboards, establishing a spacious and immersive backdrop. As the composition develops, a gradual crescendo introduces heavier guitar work, while the bass maintains a hypnotic continuity. The interplay between these elements results in a controlled build-up that preserves the initial mood while increasing overall weight and intensity. “Go On” offers a contrasting perspective, beginning with a restrained and evocative introduction that highlights the vocal timbre. As the track progresses, additional layers—particularly synth textures and refined bass lines—enrich the arrangement. The central section introduces a shift in momentum, with a more active rhythmic drive and alternating passages between instrumental interplay and incisive vocal lines. Subtle orchestral elements in the latter half add depth, contributing to a carefully constructed dynamic arc. “Can’t Resist” returns to a more immediate compositional style, opening with gentle arpeggios before transitioning into a melody-driven structure. The track benefits from precise tempo changes and a measured incorporation of more soulful nuances, expanding its expressive range without deviating from the album’s core identity. A more assertive central section introduces heavier guitar work and a sharper lead tone, before the composition resolves by returning to its initial thematic material. The title track “Far Away,” the longest piece on the album, operates on a more expansive timescale. Built on an Atmospheric introduction of guitar and keyboards, it develops through a gradual and continuous crescendo. The vocal interpretation remains warm and expressive, guiding the listener through a progression that shifts toward darker Heavy Rock territories. Guitar solos are distributed with restraint and purpose, integrated into the structure rather than imposed upon it. The track’s strength lies in its ability to sustain tension through layering and controlled evolution. Closing the album, “Master Pretender” functions as a brief but impactful outro. Its rawer edge, drawing on garage and proto-punk textures, provides a stark contrast to the more structured compositions that precede it. The track’s concise form and abrasive tone act as a deliberate closing statement, leaving a sharper final impression. Overall, “Far Away” is a composed and credible debut that demonstrates a clear understanding of contemporary Heavy Rock language. Lazer show a solid command of arrangement and dynamics, balancing heavier passages with more atmospheric moments while maintaining stylistic coherence throughout. The album does not aim to redefine the genre, nor does it reach toward particularly distinctive or groundbreaking territory, but it remains consistently well-executed. Its strength lies in its equilibrium: a controlled, well-paced listening experience that avoids excess and focuses on effective songwriting and cohesive sound design. While it stops short of delivering truly standout or defining moments, it establishes a reliable foundation. As such, it stands as a convincing first step—measured, enjoyable, and indicative of potential further development rather than a fully realized artistic peak.
Purchase “Far Away” here: https://shop.stonefree.co.at/products/lazer-packages
Tracklist
01. Underwater (06:18)
02. Run Away (06:44)
03. Can’t Speak (06:25)
04. Sheeps In Clothes (05:20)
05. Getting Colder (06:59)
06. Go On (05:32)
07. Can’t Resist (05:44)
08. Far Away (07:32)
09. Master Pretender (01:21)
Lineup
Lukas Klingseisen / Production, Guitar, Piano, Synth
Lukas Schmidt / Guitar
Moritz Holy / Bass
Tanja “Aunty” Peinsipp / Vocals & Lyrics
Dale St. Jules / Drums
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