New Jersey-based psych-rock/dream pop artist Aura Blaze, aka Rhode Rachel, recently released his new EP, Open-Mindedness, written, recorded, and produced by the artist.
Talking about the EP, Aura Blaze shares, “Featuring 3 tracks packed with blazing energy, neon color, and a swirling galaxy of texture and innovative sound design, I can say with confidence that the ‘Open-Mindedness EP’ is one for the record books.
“Let the cover art speak for itself as a glimpse into the atmosphere of this release, with the sanctity of transcendental introspection blossoming radiantly through what Aldous Huxley would refer to as the “mind’s antipodes,” or the regions of the mind that one may reach through intense meditation or psychedelic exploration. It is an honor to offer ‘Open-Mindedness’ as an aural adjuvant towards a deeper discovery of self, acting as a cosmic catalyst for elevated consciousness.
“Originally intended as an early summer release, the recording process has been met with no shortage of setbacks, including an external hard drive that decided to crash at a significantly inopportune time during production. Thankfully, I was able to revive the recording sessions and I am happy to finally bring this EP to life amidst the adversity that challenged its creation.”
Aura Blaze’s sound blends retro vibes from the ‘60s and ‘70s, à la Pink Floyd and The Doors, with complex waves of contemporary psych-rock suggestive of Tame Impala, The Black Angels, and Temples.
The title track begins the EP, opening on layers of gleaming psych-rock colors riding a tight, alluring rhythm as Rhode’s velvety, evocative voice imbues the lyrics with dreamy timbres. Revealing savors and textures of the ‘70s, the track summons up memories of Tears for Fears.
“The Summer Solstice” features hints of new wave color infused with alt-pop tinges. Sparkling tiers of lysergic flavors give the tune an upbeat, feel-good momentum, harking back to the flower-power days of the ‘60s.
“The Only One I Know,” a cover of the hit song by The Charlatans, rolls out on a majestic intro, followed by kaleidoscopic sprays of psychedelic rock vaguely reminiscent of Emerson, Lake and Palmer. Rhode’s wistful vocals give the lyrics delicious, dreamy swirling tones.
Open-Mindedness offers lush, surging expanses of psych-rock coloration, bewitching rhythms, and the captivating voice of Aura Blaze.
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