toundra

(8/10) Spanish prog rocker Toundra break the pattern. Two years after having released their latest album “IV”, following “I”, “II” and “III”. So there was a crystal clear numbering system connected to their releases and everybody expected – indeed – “V”. However, in order to surprise fans the title of the new longplayer is different. “Vortex” is what the fifth album is called and at least we can conclude that the title starts with a ‘v’.

What’s actually more exciting than the name is the music that come with “Vortex”. Toundra’s sound reminds me of Muenster-based Long Distance Calling. One thing the bands have in common is the instrumental songs that sometimes get extended to epical length. There is a feeling of jam sessions that acted as a base for these eight songs of which “Mojave” is with 11 minutes the by far longest. Good musical craftsmanship together with a sense for powerful riffs and a strong, but not too catchy melody line stand for the basic ingredients of what you get served by the Spanish quartet.  I could see too many differences in their approach compared to “IV”. It’s more the details that are slightly different, leading to exciting news tunes that are treat for fans of ambitious and layered progressive rock that builds on some post-metal influences too.

“Vortex” is an album that slowly unveils its addictive potential. Once you’re lassoed by these cinematic soundscapes you don’t have a choice more than giving the album a few loops.

(8/10)

Tracklist:

1. Intro Vortex
2. Cobra
3. Tuareg
4. Cartavio
5. Kingston Falls
6. Mojave
7. Roay Neary

Label: InsideOut Music

Genre: Prog Rock

Release Date EU: April 23^rd, 2018

(8/10) If you combine musical craftsman's ship with a high level of emotional creativity you will get Toundra.

I have to say that I have missed the band till now. Toundra are from Madrid, Spain, and they are already around since 2007 when they released their debut; simply named "I". That the new album got the title "IV" shows, that Toundra has so far four records out on the market. To follow the logic, the other two records are "II" and "III".

The Madrilenians play prog rock without any vocals - so purely instrumental."IV" contains eight songs that, even though its an instrumental album, tell a story. It's about two foxes that need to escape from the forest due to a huge fire. This story gives of course room for individual interpretation and for Toundra it is a metaphor about humanity destroying the environment. So it's not only good music you get - it's also food for thoughts.

When it comes to the tracks, they are between 2 and 9 minutes long. The story starts with "Strelka". Singing birds introduce the song before a guitar joins in. The song reflects a very peaceful atmosphere before in the second half the sound gets harder and a kind of 'escaping' vibe takes over the scene. The nine minutes long "Qarqom" is coming next. The interplay between fragile silent parts and heavy prog rock is very well done. The song can keep the excitement from throughout the nine minutes and is a real listening experience.

This is just two out of the eight songs that are on the tracklist. But they represent Toundra very well. The band works with awesome melodies that creates a very special atmosphere. Their music creates picture. 

The music of the Spanish band covers everything from melodic rock, prog metal and indie sounds. This opens Toundra's music also to a bigger audience.

"IV" became an inspiring prog album which shows, that storytelling doesn't necessarily need words and lyrics. Well done guys.

(8/10)

Tracklist:

1. Strelka
2. Qarqom
3. Lluvia
4. Belenos
5. Vuesca
6. Kitsune
7. MRWING
8. Oro rojo

Label: Superball

Genre: Prog Rock