TRACK LIST:
1. Hitmen [Justin K. Broadrick Mix] 8:32
2. Hitmen [Jesu Remix] 9:00
3. Hitmen [JK Flesh Remix] 9:34
4. Warhero [James Plotkin Mix] 9:05
5. Remembrance [James Plotkin Mix] 2:43
6. SS Montgomery [James Plotkin Remix] 6:38
LINE UP :
Marlon Aaron King - guitars
Nick Hannon - bass
Stevie. B - drums
Blake - textures
Prolusion.
UK band Sons of Alpha Centauri was formed back in 2001, and the band have released new material every few years after they issued their initial album "Sons of Alpha Centauri" in 2007, with a handful of productions to their name at this stage. "Buried Memories" dates back to 2019, and was released through the label H42 Records.
Analysis.
This is kind of an odd album for a band to release really, as the album does consist of new songs (with one exception) but all of them are released in remixed versions. In this case with one song given three different remixes while the three other songs are present with a sole remix.
'Hitmen' is the song explored in three different guises here, and the versions are different enough from one another that it is actually logical to have all three variations on an album here. The Justin K. Broadrick Mix presents the song as a vibrant hard rock instrumental with metal tendencies included and a nifty harmony overlay, while the Jesu Remix transports the song over to post-rock territories with an abundance of flowing textures as key assets. The JK Flesh Remix builds upon the former to some extent, but adds a bit of a post-punk undercurrent and a bit more of a noise rock orientation to the post-rock foundation.
'Warhero' is a creation that has post-rock tendencies rather than a straight up post-rock orientation, with dramatic metal surges adding tons of tension to the landscapes explored. The following 'Remembrance' dives into darker and more menacing landscapes with industrial and cosmic effects applied to a post-rock foundation, while the concluding 'SS Montgomery' blends a general post-rock orientation with a booming post-punk style bass guitar and electronic noise rock.
"Buried Memories" comes across as quite the striking and dramatic take on the post-rock genre, both by stepping outside of the confines of the genre on occasion but also to mix and blend a perhaps more conventional post-rock style with style elements from different style traditions and elements. Resulting in an unconventional but also charming and appealing end product.
Conclusion.
"Buried Memories" is a production to seek out by those with an interest in a band having a different take on the post-rock genre, listeners that are open and accepting to the inclusion of other style elements and the form explored in a more expressive manner. Post-rock fans with an open and liberal mind to this type of music should get a lot out of exploring this album.
Progmessor: January 2023
The Rating Room
