Heavy Rock
Cruz Del Sur Music
Release Date – March 8th 2024
Line Up:
Screaming Loz Sutch – Vocals
Seek And DesTroy – Guitar
Inverted CruciFox – Guitar
Jaytanic Ritual – Bass
Mr Styx – Drums
Tracklist:
1 – Let Us Begin
2 – Lock And Key
3 – ‘Twas A Lie
4 – Woe Be Father’s Troubled Mind
5 – Betrothed To The Serpent
6 – Evermore
7 – Hariette May
8 – Goodnight My Children
I had never come across The Neptune Power Federation until now. Hailing from Australia, this marks their sixth album since their debut in 2013. They promise an authentic Australian rock experience fused with the Sunset Strip vibe. Reportedly, the songs are a compilation of nighttime children’s stories set to music.
The quintessential Australian rock spirit explodes in the thundering ‘Let Us Begin.’ Two and a half minutes of gritty and raw rock ‘n’ roll, which seamlessly continues in the AC/DC-style ‘Lock & Key,’ featuring vocals reminiscent of Ann Wilson. It’s straightforward, with a pulsating bassline and a wicked guitar lick. ‘Twas A Lie’ introduces a touch of new wave with a poppy synth line and a simple guitar rhythm. Then, the mood takes a turn with ‘Woe Be Father’s Troubled Mind,’ embracing 70’s psych/prog, followed by a venture into glam with ‘Betrothed To The Serpent’ and ‘Evermore.’ Synths and dreamy vocals set the stage in ‘Hariette Mae’ before a haunting vocal and dark rhythm give way to a colossal doomy riff. ‘Goodnight My Children’ is a dark lullaby, featuring sinister vocals that explode in the chorus, where singer Screaming Loz Sutch, The Imperial Priestess, unleashes her vocal prowess.
Since my first listen, I haven’t been able to put this album down; there’s so much to savor. Massive riffs, pulsating rhythms, exceptional guitar work, superb basslines, and the vocals, nothing short of sublime. Each song crafts a unique atmosphere and groove with outstanding melodies and compelling hooks. It’s an exceptional find, and I’m eager to explore their back catalog once I complete this review. If you revel in heavy, gritty, and slightly offbeat music, grab this with both hands, but beware – it’s red hot!
Written by: Smudge
Ratings: 8/10