AKTOPASA’s debut album, “Journey to the Pink Planet,” takes listeners on an immersive musical expedition through a sonic landscape that defies traditional boundaries. Comprised of Marco Sebastiano Alessi on drums, Lorenzo Barutta on lead guitar, and Silvio Tozzato on bass guitar, this three-man band hailing from the Venetian hinterland demonstrates their adeptness at crafting an otherworldly experience through their psychedelic compositions.
The band’s name, “Aktopasa,” derived from the Nepalese word for octopus, immediately sets the tone for their unconventional approach. Although Nepal is known for its majestic mountains rather than oceanic creatures, AKTOPASA seeks to intertwine the mystical frequencies from various sources, including the heights of Mount Everest, the shores of the British coast, the allure of Caribbean islands, the depths of the Underground, and even the vast expanses of outer space. The result is a collection of songs that transports listeners to a time and place that is simultaneously familiar and enigmatic.
Drawing influences from renowned acts like COLOUR HAZE, SAMSARA BLUES EXPERIMENT, and MY SLEEPING KARMA, AKTOPASA embraces a rich musical tapestry that intertwines elements of stoner rock, psychedelic rock, and progressive rock. “Journey to the Pink Planet” showcases the band’s exceptional musicianship and their ability to create intricate, hypnotic compositions.
The album opens with the ethereal track “Calima,” (right after the intro “Alif”) where shimmering guitar riffs and pulsating basslines intertwine with the dynamic drumming to create a mesmerizing introduction. As the album progresses, tracks like “It’s Not The Reason” and “Sirdarja” seamlessly blend atmospheric passages with powerful grooves, taking the listener on a sonic journey that is both introspective and exhilarating.
The band showcases their compositional prowess, deftly shifting between soaring guitar solos, intricate rhythmic patterns, and moments of transcendent serenity. The interplay between the instruments is masterfully executed, creating a sense of unity and cohesion that propels the listener deeper into the heart of the music.
Throughout “Journey to the Pink Planet,” AKTOPASA demonstrates their ability to create a sonic landscape that is rich in texture and depth. The production quality is excellent, allowing each instrument to shine while maintaining a cohesive sound. The band’s commitment to their vision is evident, as they effortlessly fuse disparate musical elements into a cohesive whole, resulting in a unique and captivating listening experience.
While the album predominantly focuses on instrumental compositions, the absence of vocals does not hinder its ability to convey emotions and evoke vivid imagery. Each track tells its own story, inviting listeners to embark on a personal journey of self-reflection and exploration.
In conclusion, AKTOPASA’s “Journey to the Pink Planet” is a remarkable debut that showcases the band’s exceptional musicianship and their ability to create a captivating sonic universe. With their distinctive blend of stoner rock, psychedelic rock, and progressive rock, AKTOPASA proves themselves to be a force to be reckoned with in the modern rock scene. “Journey to the Pink Planet” is an invitation to explore the uncharted realms of the mind and let the music guide you on an unforgettable expedition.
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Released by ARGONAUTA Records on December 2nd, 2022
Music source for review – Grand Sounds PR
