HIGHTOWER

EQUATIONS are a new promising prog band hailing from Porto, Portugal. Their second album shows rather eclectic tendencies, while mixing up progressive psychedelic/space with some distinct art rock varieties. 'Hightower' was released on the fine Portuguese Lovers & Lollypops label at the beginning of 2015 and offers eight entertaining songs. Yes, this sounds fresh and innovative overall. Consequently I gave the self-titled album from 2012 a listen too, just wanted to know more about the band's musical development. While mirroring a somewhat wild and rebellious approach, this debut is, at least technically seen, definitely appealing, though with a concept behind that reminds me of Mars Volta a lot.

Not my cup of tea that much regarding this presentation, but basically they have preserved the heavy rocking attitude, which is a benefit in any case. Another special is Bruno's vocal appearance, which takes getting used to somehow, has evolved for sure when taking the new one in consideration. Although still interestingly high-pitched here and there, for example on Slow Trials. Obviously way more accessible here on 'Hightower', and so due to the vocals exactly the opener Afterlights and the following Ascent appear somewhat 60's psychedelia drenched on one side. On the other hand though, as already noticed before, they show up a way more heavier rocking drive as usually known from the 'old days'.

And we also should take into account that not only the standard rhythm instruments are the driving force, overall the outstanding keyboard/synth input is really varied, not that genre typical, while the guitars are not reduced on an echoing space habit solely. So much for the band's sovereignty. You see, not a band which is limited to a narrow context music-wise. Furthermore it's a challenge to name some favourite excerpts, this is an album which appeals all the way through. However, I really like Echoing Green - a mid-tempo song featuring unusual tribal drums, looping synths and very melancholic guitars. If I should name bands similiar in sound, only Australian's Alithia come into my mind. 'Hightower' is a very interesting album, offers more than a standard psych/space genre output.