Mind Overclock is a UK band that weaves Psychedelic and Progressive Rock sounds with forays into Heavy and Folk. Their second album “A Blessing In Disguise” was released on September 13, 2023 via Mind Dazed Records and contains 7 tracks including an epic suite over 25 minutes long. The work was produced by Marco ragni, who also participates on guitar and keyboards in three tracks. The opening track “Ananda Vrah” has an oriental flavour that mixes with the traits of modern psychedelia that permeate the sound. The rhythm section features solid, elaborate drumming and deep, load-bearing bass lines, enhanced by tempo changes. Chiratta and keyboards intertwine in the melodies, resulting in an engaging track full of fresh and modern cues. A frenetic rhythm and heavy guitar work characterise “Mysterium Delirium,” an energetic and engaging passage. The band’s personal style allows it to range from Psychedelia to Funky, with a hypnotic slap bass in the middle section. Between continuous tempo changes and solo inserts, the band’s compositional and performance technique is brought to the fore, with accelerations reminiscent of the style of early Space Rock bands. An intro with acoustic guitar and softer sounds opens “Trip To The Milky Way,” a track with more dilated and dreamy sounds. The band leads us through this cosmic trip, with guitar solos and ethereal atmospheres that are sure to capture the listener’s attention. “Superseeder 70s” returns to more energetic sounds, with a solid, elaborate rhythm section and a killer bassline, warm and hypnotic. The guitar offers solo inserts and beautifully crafted riffs, intertwining with the keyboards and resulting in extended instrumental sections. A continuous alternation of more Heavy passages and softer, dilated openings, exploring the different facets of the band’s sound. The guitar takes centre stage in “Secret Garden,” a track with continuous tempo changes and sometimes frenetic drumming. Alternating between accelerations and softer moments, the band offers a sometimes rougher sound that mixes psychedelia and a retro touch of Garage Rock. The album’s shortest track “Crack it up!” ranges between Funky and Neo-Psychedelic sounds thanks to the band’s personal touch. A killer bassline and elaborate drumming characterise the rhythm section, allowing the guitar to offer melodies and solo inserts of absolute value. Psychedelia meets progressive rock and more in the final epic suite “Riders Of The Skies (Part I-XIII).” The entire duration of the track allows the band to explore all facets of their sound, taking the listener to the furthest boundaries of Rock music. Interesting passages of acoustic guitar and flute, which give a Folk touch to the song, then return to more Rock sounds, always skilfully mixing Psychedelia and Prog. A track to listen to again and again, which contains within it ideas and passages of fine workmanship. A good work by the English trio, which offers an intense and original album from start to finish. All tracks have their own character, bringing out all the facets that make up the band’s personal style. A mixture of Psychedelia, between neo and retro, Progressive, Funky and forays into Folk in the final track. A recommended listen that shows how quality Rock music still has its exponents in our days.
Tracklist
01. Ananda Vrah (04:18)
02. Mysterium Delirium (05:58)
03. Trip To The Milky Way (04:39)
04. Superseeder 70s (04:48)
05. Secret Garden (03:57)
06. Crack it up! (03:32)
07. Riders Of The Skies (Part I-XIII) (25:40)
Lineup
Edward Pemberton / Lead Guitar
Tim Minashyan / Bass, Keyboards, Flute
Isiah Pierce / Drums & Percussions
With Marco Ragni: Acoustic Guitar and Keyboards (Tracks 3, 4, 7)
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