God Is An Astronaut is back with their eleventh studio album, Embers, a work that resounds with the signature melancholy and atmospheric depth that their fans have come to cherish. Released almost in synchronicity with the end of summer on September 6, 2024, this album marks another masterpiece in their post-rock saga. It’s hard to believe that just two years ago, the band graced us with Somnia, and yet here they are, pushing the boundaries of their art once more.
The album opens with “Apparition,” a track that unfolds like a haunting storybook, using delicately picked guitars that transition into more ominous territory thanks to the strategic use of sitars and swirling synths. This track sets the atmosphere beautifully for what’s to come, guiding listeners through an almost spectral experience.
“Falling Leaves” tells a reflective tale on the transience of life, evoking images of a serene autumn evening. The guitars here are cool and laid-back, reminiscent of moments of repose. As the track evolves, precise drums and a pulsating bass inject a hypnotic rhythm that sweeps you into deeper contemplation. Despite its length, the song’s ability to develop naturally without a hint of rush is a testament to the band’s matured craftsmanship.
Moving to “Odyssey,” God Is An Astronaut displays their knack for harmonious complexity, interweaving intricate guitar lines with ambient synths. The first half of the song has a delicate beauty, later giving way to powerful, driving riffs that evoke both urgency and exhilaration—an intoxicating mix that is one of the album’s high points.
“Heart of Roots” offers a shift in mood with its introspective undertones led by a mesmerizing bass motif. This pensive piece unfolds into elegant segments of piano and faintly haunting guitar, showcasing Niels Kinsella‘s exquisite musicianship. The track feels like a companion piece to the album’s centerpiece and title track, “Embers.”
Clocking in at ten minutes, “Embers” encapsulates a journey through dark atmospheres and evolving motifs. The interplay of brooding ambiances and invigorating crescendos gives the song a dynamic edge. Lloyd Hanney‘s imaginative percussion anchors the piece, lending it a pulsating undercurrent that keeps you hooked till the climactic end.
On the flip side, “Realms” dives into more ambient waters, presenting an almost meditative experience with its celestial synth layers and slow-shifting chords. In contrast, “Oscillation” is a more turbulent piece, characterized by restless and powerful instrumentation. The guitars here create a storm of sound that disrupts and entices, offering both tension and release.
As the album begins to draw to a close, “Prism” and “Hourglass” bring us back to more reflective territories. “Prism”captivates with its repeating keyboard ostinato that feels deeply melancholic, while “Hourglass” closes the album with a piano-led composition that is lush and contemplative. The addition of Jo Quail‘s cello on these tracks adds an extra layer of emotional weight, making them hauntingly beautiful ends to an already rich album.
God Is An Astronaut has outdone themselves with Embers. Every track is a carefully crafted piece of a grand puzzle, revealing new facets with each listen. The band seamlessly blends their signature dreamlike and progressive elements into a cohesive, engaging journey that feels both timely and timeless.
Favorite tracks like “Apparition,” “Embers,” and “Realms” stand out for their sheer emotional depth and sonic richness. The album as a whole is a glowing example of the band’s ability to innovate while staying true to their core sound.
Embers Tracklist:
1. Apparition
2. Falling Leaves
3. Odyssey
4. Heart of Roots
5. Embers
6. Realms
7. Oscillation
8. Prism
9. Hourglass
Embers will be available in the following formats:
– 2LP Gatefold Marbled Oxblood Black with Artprint & Slipmat
– 2LP Gatefold Transparent Yellow (Vinyl 1) / Transilia (Vinyl 2)
– 2LP Gatefold Glow In The Dark
– 2LP Gatefold Black
– 6 Page Digipak
– Music Cassette Black with Gold Print
GOD IS AN ASTRONAUT is:
Torsten Kinsella – Guitar, Piano, Synths, Backing Vocals
Niels Kinsella – Bass
Lloyd Hanney – Drums
GOD IS AN ASTRONAUT online:
WEBSITE
FACEBOOK
INSTAGRAM
TWITTER
NAPALM RECORDS
