Kevin Estrella’s self-composed and performed project ‘Pyramids on Mars’, is due to release a third edition – “Edge of the Black” coming up on Saturday, 21, December.
The third album persistently uses hyperactive rock and metal in a way which allows various rhythms and harmonic variations to communicate and conceptualise another world. It is almost incomprehensible the way in which every note of every track seems work and come together to create one holistic sound.
It evokes a sense of existentialism which allows the visualisation of something else beyond the ‘Edge of the Black’. It is the theme of space which appears most common amongst all 10 tracks – which isn’t surprising given Estrella’s own attraction to space. There is a common use of synthesisers to achieve this which allows the tracks to leap from the mundane to the unknown, effectively communicating a world many have never known.
“Blood Moon” kicks off the album, immediately presenting the aural palette of intense, hyperactive rock and metal that is continuous throughout the album. Estrella’s talent is showcased immediately, and the track pours four-dimensional emotion from the outstanding guitar solos and layered beat of drums and low strumming bass. It almost seems impossible that one man alone can create a sound so unforgettable whilst have the ability to conjure up such a strongly immersive visual experience from the audio.
“Nacht Waffen”, begins with an almost daunting staccato rhythm that awaits the heavily visceral melody that shortly follows. The melody is looped but never becomes tiresome. Instead, it establishes itself and promotes an ‘extra-terrestrial’ feel that conceptualises a world unexplored and unknown. The guitar solo is force alone to stop you short of breath but the piece as a whole really captures the “Edge of the Black” that Estrella consistently explores.
The ‘Song of Light” entertains a slightly lighter feel than the first two songs on the album, however, doesn’t stray from the ambiguity and theme of space. It is followed by F-22 Raptor, one of many tracks that really roots deep into your chest, to the point where you cannot ignore or forget the feeling of being taken on a journey beyond what we know. The deep rhythm of the guitar and drums share strong similarities to an engine style sound which really utilises the songs title and the feeling of traveling. This alongside Estrellas passion that has been woven into his work, successfully illustrates and reinvents what it means to undergo an immersive experience.
Similarly, in “Arcturian Rain” and “Time to Believe” all the elements of the band are equally respected which creates a holistic audio experience you cannot stop listening to. Even the impressive lead guitar melodies, used throughout the album are just an accompaniment to ais in emotionally charging the album.
“Time to believe”, uses a harmonic cacophony of choral voices which should, in theory, contrast the album but in practice, it evokes a much deeper feeling. Estrella uses strings and coral harmonies to fully transport a listener away from themselves which is both unusual but strangely soothing against the drums and electric guitar. You feel almost weightless listening to it as the power of the track really shines through.
The whole album is persistently conceptualising the idea of a place beyond the black, leaving a lingering sense of both existentialism and awe at Kevin Estrella’s musical talent and ability. He fully allocates all the elements of the band equal respect to create a holistic and visceral thrill that emotionally charges the whole album whilst telling a story that has to be listened to.