Band:	Blue Aside
Album:	The Moles Of A Dying Race
Style:	Progressive doom metal, Psychedelic stoner metal
Release date:	September 2012

01. The Moles Of A Dying Race - Part 1
02. The Electrode Man
03. Will We Remain Tomorrow
04. The Moles Of A Dying Race - Part 2
05. The Ice Mammoth
06. We Move To Sleep
07. The Moles Of A Dying Race - Part 3
08. Interstellar Overdriven

If you've been following the new generation of bands skillfully incorporating psychedelic elements into their metal then be sure to add Blue Aside to that list, somewhere near the top if possible. What sets them apart from the other bands doing this really well is the rich blend of other genres to which they add classic psychedelic sounds and moods. You'll find stoner metal, post metal, lots of classic rock, spacey prog galore, dirty sludge, and even some moments of upbeat sludge a la Torche. All blended seamlessly and hazily.

Despite upbeat tempos and some real heavy moments, it's strangely relaxing. The groove will pulse through you as you approach a more introspective place of listening. This is probably because of the constant musical changes employed by the band; atmosphere is allowed to grow and transform while the band explores it from every angle, even a few unexpected ones.

Lyrically, The Moles Of A Dying Race tells an interesting story: the people on the dying planet of Austahu are divided as the privileged are able to use their power and wealth to protect themselves from the elements while the common people are forced underground to physically live as moles of their dying race. The band's debut EP, The Orange Tree, began the tale and saw a time traveler mistakenly emerge on Austahu; this new album is a continuation of that story line. In fact, they call themselves a "concept band" and have left open many possible directions for this story through the use of travel through time and space.

The psychedelic prog shines beautifully in the melodic parts of this album, yet during the heavier, sludgier parts the listener is allowed to aurally surf the melody through the harsher music, never losing it completely as it swirls around the tunes. Blue Aside has compared parts of their music to bands like Yob, Boris, Dead Meadow, and Pink Floyd; you'll hear all of these but most importantly you'll hear the band's own sound and won't be able to get enough.

This album continues Blue Aside's collaboration with the detail-oriented folks at Hydro-Phonic Records; together they present us with some stunning cover artwork as well as options to own this gem (and the previous EP) on beautiful colored vinyl as well as CD.

Listen at bandcamp. Purchase the CD or gorgeous vinyl via their label.