BEYOND DRAMA

Aisles, the Chilean band known for their memorable 2016 record Hawaii, is back with another great album, Beyond Drama. This time, they have a new singer, Israel Gil, replacing Germán Vergara, and he does a great job. It's a little complicated to get into all the changes with the band members, so I'd rather focus on the music.

Beyond Drama marks a major shift in what the band has done before. After almost six years of touring with the highly acclaimed Hawaii, Now Aisles sounds more mature, heavier, and more confident. They take risks with something more extravagant and technical, without losing their essence. Beyond Drama is a step forward in what Aisles is aiming for in the future.

1. Fast (4:38) The album starts with an energetic and punchy opener. "Fast" reflects the hectic pace of life, driven by sharp riffs and a rhythmic pulse that grabs your attention right away. It's both technical and emotional, setting a fast pace for what's to come.

2. Megalomania (6:25) As the title suggests, "Megalomania" explores themes of grandiosity and excess. Musically, it features expansive structures and dramatic shifts, highlighting the band's progressive style. Strong guitar work and changing time signatures add to the complexity of the song.

3. Thanks to Kafka (4:18) This track draws inspiration from Franz Kafka's existential themes, blending surreal, introspective lyrics. Musically, it's more reflective, with atmospheric sections that allow the vocals to stand out. The mood is darker, but it's balanced with moments of clarity and melody.

4. Disobedience (7:18) A longer and more ambitious song, "Disobedience" is filled with intricate instrumentation and themes of rebellion. It moves between quiet, introspective parts and heavier, defiant sections, building tension as it progresses. The guitar solos add a strong emotional touch to this complex piece.

5. Time (A Conversation with My Therapist) (6:40) This reflective song explores time from a personal perspective. The conversational lyrics fit well with the subdued yet emotionally charged music. Layers of keyboards, gentle guitars, and a steady rhythm make it feel intimate and profound.

6. The Plague (11:06) The longest track on the album, "The Plague" is an epic journey, both musically and emotionally. Its length allows for wide-ranging musical exploration, from quiet, eerie moments to explosive crescendos. It feels cinematic, blending despair and hope. 7. Surrender (6:44) "Surrender" offers a balance of heavy and soft moments, reflecting the act of letting go. The arrangement flows smoothly, with soaring guitar leads and lush instrumentation. The song builds toward a powerful emotional conclusion, reflecting the inner struggle of surrender.

8. Needsun (2:09) A short and atmospheric interlude, "Needsun" provides a brief but meaningful moment of calm. It's gentle and reflective, almost like a meditation, giving listeners a chance to breathe before the final track.

9. Game Over (6:28) The album closes with "Game Over," where Aisles ties together many of the musical and lyrical themes from earlier. There's a sense of finality, both musically and emotionally, with tight instrumentation and a thoughtful message about endings and new beginnings. It leaves a strong, lasting impression.

Beyond Drama showcases Aisles' progressive rock roots while taking a new direction with more introspective lyrics and a balance of light and dark moods. It's a very enjoyable album and a great addition to any music library.