Cosmic Variations
Self-Released, 2022
8/10
A French guitarist who has a lengthy and impressive catalog of music, Xavier Boscher weaves in and out of exciting and unpredictable textures across these 13 prog-fueled tunes.
“Sea Serpent” opens the listen with chugging guitars and thumping drums, as a forceful meets delicate version of prog sounds unfolds, and “Echo 1” follows with a calm, dreamy approach of reflective exploration.
Deeper into the listen, “Reticulum” tosses in shades of metal alongside the angular, radiant textures, while “Denebola”, the album’s best, displays soaring, meticulous prog-rock that embraces intricate guitar work and pounding drums.
Closer to the end, “Astrophel” balances melody and a unique intensity with the utmost care, and “Stellan” exits the listen more abrasive, with a chugging formula that also emits soothing, absorbing guitar work.
A listen that welcomes metal, New Age, fusion and atmosphere into the timeless equation, fans of all things prog-rock won’t be disappointed with Cosmic Variations.
Travels well with: Wobbler- Dwellers Of The Deep; Meer- Playing House