El Pompero is a heavy rock band from the Gothenburg area, whose sound is influenced by bands of the late 1960s and early 1970s. After several line-up changes, now a power trio, they released their new single “Grand Recording Sessions” on September 22, 2024, containing two long tracks. The first track “The World Today” immediately immerses us in the band’s granitic sound, between energetic electric guitar riffs and a solid rhythm section. The bass lines are deep and load-bearing, giving body to the song, the drumming is enriched by tempo changes and the guitar develops the song’s melodies well. The lyrics are interpreted by a dynamic and incisive vocalist who alternates solo verses with engaging choral refrains. The retro sounds are reinterpreted in a modern key by the band, which manages to add its own personal touch. Interesting central theme developments and guitar solo inserts, an opener that immediately shows the band’s maturity and their Heavy Rock attitude. The second and last track of this single “Cosmological Constant” is also the longest in duration, exceeding eight minutes. A solid rhythm section with a killer bassline opens the track, to which are added engaging guitar riffs and a distinctly retro vocal that adds quality to the track. Imbued with the sounds of the early 70s and with those Heavy Rock dictates that immediately catch the listener’s attention. In the middle part of the track the band explores more Psychedelic sounds with an extended instrumental section with guitar and effects in evidence, creating lysergic atmospheres. In a constant crescendo that takes us right to the finale, the track concludes with increased intensity and evolving this long instrumental and with some fine choruses. A band that displays a granitic and incisive sound, managing to bring classic heavy rock sounds into a fresh and modern context with a personal interpretation. Well-constructed riffs, solid and elaborate rhythm section, enriched by tempo changes and dynamic and expressive vocals. The instrumental sections enhance the malgam between the various instruments, the technique of the musicians involved and show how this power trio is full of ideas. A recommended listen for all lovers of the purest and most classic Rock sounds, in the best tradition of the genre, an excellent example of how a power trio should perform.
Tracklist
01. The World Today (05:29)
02. Cosmological Constant (08:23)
Lineup
Anders Jacobson / Guitar, Vocals, Organ & Electric Piano
Lars Berger / Drums & Percussions
Mikael “Lyris” Kalsson / Bass
