Genre: Heavy Psyche Occult Rock
The band Aksava was founded recently in July 2014 and deliver heavy psych sounds inspired by the dark side of the 60’s and 70’s, love-craftian madness, Jean Rollin and Jess Franco movies. They unleash the sounds from the depths made of raw guitars, vicious bass lines, pounding drums and possessed vocals!
The heavy slow rhythms are sure to bring a smile to the faces of many on the first track of this E.P although it is just an introductory track that wet’s the appetite and doesn’t really give much away, although it does pave the way for what is about to be unleashed.
The second track on the E.P The Deep can boast plenty of deep guitar and cavernous bass courtesy of Amélie Gavalda – yes she is female and does a superb job on this track, along with the gritty vocal by Louis Hauguel that in places does sound slightly off kilter, but it is done in a way that isn’t overly noticeable.
‘Sons of Bastet’ is a rocky track that is intriguing to the point you want to listen to more! The harmonies are excellent and the catchiness is vibrant and untamed, although similar bands have produced the same sounds it is just the deep melodic punch that hits you in the gut that is so delicious.
‘The Witch is rising’ slinks cautiously amid a whispered vocal that gives it an ambiance, displaying a hostile edge but none the less powerful, especially when it builds to its feisty climax and seizes the moment. The throaty gritty vocals stamp their mark on the track amid a sold bass line and sharp drumming – it tends to play with the mind!
‘Black & White Lady’ starts off quite sparse and then a solid edgy rhythm kicks in and batters the senses to an inch of its life! Deep and meaningful it is a real body mover and hosts a real earthy sound that is pleasing to the ears.
‘And Die!’ being the final track on the E.P is quite sinister and broods consistently with keyboards dominating it and producing a fitting end to a good E.P.
Considering the band haven’t been out there that long the music they have produced does possess a gripping endeavour. The intrigue runs through its veins and captivates a good resourcefulness.
It is also quite raw and unpolished with its delicious bass hooks and deep seated edgy rock riffs, add in keyboards and it sets the scene for inescapable satisfaction!
Mainly the music is slow and precise but it does have its rockier moments and there is plenty of potential for the band to move in various circles, either getting heavier or staying on a more even keel, but the potential is there festering and ready to explode!
