NMM SoundBytes: NYC’s King Analog Transports Listener with Riff-Heavy Prog Rock
The lead track and first single from King Analog’s new self-titled release, “Transporter”, is a wonderful instrumental prog-rock track that oozes the grooviness of Hendrix, the shredding of modern heavy metal, and the druggy haze of Floyd all in one. Unlike many progressive tracks, it’s a radio-friendly 3 and a half minutes, but that doesn’t mean it holds back on the tempo changes, fantastic instrumentation, and creativity that are a hallmark of the genre.
First, we hear a change around the 45 second mark, breaking the song open a bit from its initial groove. Then around the 100 second mark, the song really opens up and we begin to hear that more metallic influence and the heavy shredding. Yet, from start to finish, whether in its more contemplative moments or in its more furious ones, it maintains a perfect melodic rhythm section and a wonderful continuity.
The psychedelic nature of the song really comes out more with the music video, as the psych elements are pairs with trippy visuals that unlock the psych-rock elements of the song in a picture perfect form. The song and accompanying video are a perfect entry into the album, which provides more of the same, while allowing each track to shine individually, as well. While the metal influence rocks harder in some tracks, others really lean heavier into the psychedelia. “Transporter” serves as that first step to “transport” you into the wild and wonderful world of King Analog.
You can check out the full album below or directly at Bandcamp or follow the the band on their Facebook page.
