MARTIAN CHRONICLES III: I OR A.I.

For decades, Solaris has been one of the few bands capable of fusing electronic and folk elements into a cohesive sound without compromising the spirit of either. 'Martian Chronicles III: I or A.I.' continues this tradition, expanding on the themes and textures that made its predecessors stand out. The synthesizers and flute, once again, serve as the core of the band's sonic identity, weaving together two seemingly opposite worlds; one mechanical and futuristic, the other earthy and timeless.

From the first notes, it's clear that Solaris has refined their approach. The synth work is more layered and expansive than ever, with pulsating arpeggios, ambient textures, and cinematic swells giving the music a sense of amplitude. This could easily dominate the album, but the flute keeps everything grounded, injecting warmth and a strong melodic presence. Kollár's playing is expressive, at times almost vocal in its phrasing, creating moments of contrast that elevate the compositions beyond typical instrumental rock.

Compared to 'Martian Chronicles I' (1984), this album leans further into electronic elements, but the spirit remains. The first installment had a symphonic, almost classical structure, while this one feels more fluid, more modern in its production approach. 'Martian Chronicles II' (2014) acted as a bridge between the past and present, keeping the core sound intact while refining it with updated recording techniques. Here, Solaris takes things a step further?this is likely their best-recorded album, with a clarity that allows every detail to shine.

However, not everything blends as seamlessly as it should. The guitar, while well-played, has a tone that occasionally feels out of place. The warm, organic textures of the flute and synths contrast beautifully, but the guitar's timbre sometimes disrupts that harmony. It's a minor flaw, but noticeable, especially given how much care went into crafting the rest of the mix.

Even with this, 'Martian Chronicles III: I or A.I.' is a powerful addition to Solaris's legacy. The band remains as adventurous as ever, proving that their unique fusion of electronic and folk influences still has new ground to explore.

Music: 5 stars

Lyrics: 4 stars

Execution: 5 stars

Emotion: 4 stars

Production: 4 stars

Artwork: 4 stars

Average: 4.33

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