#8 - Top of 2018

Church of the Cosmic Skull - Science Fiction (Independent)

 Church of the Cosmic Skull are one of those rare gems you hope to find while searching for new music and sticks with you from the first moment you give them a listen. This is perfectly complemented with weirdly "cultish" music videos that encapsulate the feeling that the band is trying to convey,  enticing the listener to enter the Inner Sanctum and join the Cosmic Family. Right off the bat, you become immersed in that retro 70s feeling with "Science Fiction", with an awesomely feel-good vibe serving as an introduction to the members of the Church. A bluesy tone is added in "Go By The River" along with some peaceful vocals and classic 70s guitar riffs reminiscent of Deep Purple, which are also prominent in "The Cards That You're Playing" with its gospel choir vocals & melodies. "Revolution Comes With An Act Of Love" is a ballad with the added spice of a Hammond organ, as melodic guitar riffs join a great choral symphony which invites the hapless listener , "all we've got to do is sing along". The catchiest song of the album has got to be "Cold Sweat" (accompanied by a uniquely strange music video), managing to combine even more groovy tunes with musical vibes emanating from the chorus. "The Others" is a tribute to that special Pink Floyd feeling, taking you on a trip to receive the Cosmic Transmission. "Timehole (Gonna Build A Rocket Tonight)" returns to the 70s hard rock sound, with a surprisingly heavier mid-song switch, while "Paper Aeroplane & Silver Moon" is a psychedelic rock song mixed with some the best guitar riffing on the album. "Science Fiction" wraps up with "The Devil Again" that features some excellent church organ and low-key soothing vocals in complete contrast with the lyrical theme of the song, thus ending this spectacular journey through the 70s and re-emerging in the present relaxed and ready to join the family of the Church.


96.25/100

Below is official music video for "Cold Sweat".