If you’re looking for something a bit different and aren’t afraid to explore the art of music, then Goya’s debut ep ‘Kathmandu’ could be just what Doctor Prog ordered.
The Stoke-On-Trent post-rock trio consist of guitarist Jason Kester, Sam Taylor on bass, and drummer Mark Connolly.
Formed of four tracks, this new release features four cuts of what the band calls ‘Absolute Music’. This statement may sound pretentious to some, but the proof is in the pudding and whilst Goya don’t quite hit the mark completely with Kathmandu, the potential for this group is obvious when listening to what’s on offer.
‘Collider’ kicks things off and it’s a pretty standard rock affair. Not that there’s anything wrong with that. But the tracks that follow put this in the shade for my money, and the song may have benefited from a few more twists and turns, as displayed in the next track, ‘Venenatus’, which for me is the standout track on this EP. It’s an epic display of power and emotion that takes influences from Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, Rush, Black Sabbath, but brings it bang up to date with a contemporary stoner/prog/doom landscape and a fine melody throughout to keep the listener engaged for all it’s 12+ minutes with its subtle and nuanced approached.
Both track three ‘Ashoka’ the title track ‘Kathmandu’ are also very noteworthy, emphasising atmospheric listening experiences that makes this EP a listening, joyful experience.
‘Kathmandu’ (the ep) won’t be for everyone. But if you’re tired of the tsunami of cookie cutting music and are willing to try something a little bit different, the 30+ mins running time of Goya’s debut EP will fly by, as I found it a refreshing experience.
A solid start. If Goya can maintain the exploration, experimentation and passion for making music, a debut album from the band eventually could be the making of them.
8/10
