Astra– The Black Chord CD (Rise Above)
Second album from this San Diego five piece. Six tracks of psychedelic Floyd-esque, keyboard driven, progressive rock. The band garnered a lot of positive press for their debut album ‘The Weirding’ which sadly I haven’t heard, but will definitely be checking out based on the strength of the six tracks on this release. If you’re a fan of Moog/Mellotron/Guitar drenched jams with subtle nuances ala early 70s Floyd, King Crimson, Gong or Mahavishnu Orchestra this should get your juices flowing. Ian Pickens











