AVTOMAT PROSHLOGO

You can hear that CIOLKOWSKA are deriving from the Russian Federation. What may surprise one or two anyhow - they have developed a rather eclectic approach in recent years. The stylistical fundament is obvious, the arrangements though are definitely sophisticated, more than what one normally would expect from a common psychedelic space rock band. Let's say ... due to a strict structure, diverse tempo changes, twists and turns, as well as unusual instruments and a sublime atmosphere. Just for your entertainment, okay? There is a trumpet aboard now too, but not solely Aleksey Gorshkov will add a proper jazzy touch to some songs. Just take the speedy My Iz Dzhaza for example, which shows the whole band off the beaten path.

The nine tracks are focussed on the instrumental scope, vocals are not always given. If so, then truely presented in many variants, partially also via sample, or in narrative form. Not to forget, somewhat spectacular of course is the presence of an electrified ukelele, played by Alesha Izlesa, and this since the band's very beginning. What ultimately serves an ethnic vibe, akin to Slovo Mira's balalaika. Furthermore, due to punchy drums and bass, the songs generate strength and power again and again. And then Yegor Svysokihgor shows the complete expression on his guitars, from soaring to acid, melancholic to heavy. Simply fabulous!

I will pick up another example here, more close to a jam, the inspired 108 shows some funny (freestyle?) vocals, in some way referencing Jim Morrison, Kurt Cobain, Janis Joplin and others. Goal accomplished. Released digitally and on CD by addicted label noname666 'Avtomat Proshlogo' turns out to be a recommended purchase. Some may deprecate that two covers are taken for the song collection, they are adopted from other obscure Saint Petersburg based bands. Doesn't really matter, because I'm sure that most of us never ever will have listened to the originals beforehand.