Sendelica’s “Man, Myth & Magic”: A Journey Beyond Time and Space
In the realm of progressive rock, few bands dare to traverse the ethereal boundaries of sound and imagination quite like Sendelica. Their latest offering, “Man, Myth & Magic,” is no exception, serving as a testament to their unparalleled ability to craft music that transcends the conventional. As a fervent admirer of their work, I’ve eagerly immersed myself into this album.
“Man, Myth & Magic” is the third chapter in a quartet of studio albums that delve deep into the essence of humanity’s relationship with the mystical, the mythical, and the self. Following the introspective narratives of “And Man Created God” and “One Man’s Man,” this album embarks on an exploration of the blurred lines between magic and science, myth and reality. It’s an ambitious journey, one that Sendelica navigates with their signature blend of space rock, psych rock, and ambient electronics.
Released by the esteemed Fruits de Mer Records, “Man, Myth & Magic” is a double album comprised of four side-long instrumental tracks. Each piece is a voyage in itself, inviting listeners to embark on a sonic odyssey that defies temporal and spatial constraints. The album is not just an auditory experience but a visual feast as well, thanks to its color vinyl, printed inners, a poster, and a striking die-cut gatefold sleeve.
The Tracks:
Wheel of Fortune (16:25)
Neptune (The Hanged Man) (21:18)
Magician Dawn (19:33)
Tower of Chaos (20:27)
From the moment the needle drops on “Wheel of Fortune,” it’s clear that Sendelica are not just creating music; they’re weaving a tapestry of sound that envelops the listener. “Neptune (The Hanged Man)” further draws us into a reflective state, challenging our perceptions of reality. “Magician Dawn” is a testament to the band’s ability to paint with sound, crafting landscapes that bloom in the mind’s eye. Finally, “Tower of Chaos” brings the journey to a powerful close, leaving us to ponder what just happened!
Peter Bingham’s guitar work, alongside the rhythmic foundation laid down by his bandmates, creates a synergy that is both captivating and thought-provoking. The production, particularly the ethereal saxophone and the organic drum sounds, adds layers of depth to the album, making each listen a new discovery.
“Man, Myth & Magic” is more than an album; it’s an experience, but above all it is a lot of fun. It’s a reminder of the power of music to transport us to the outer reaches of our imagination and to connect us with the intangible aspects of our existence. (yes it is that deep!) Sendelica are sonic architects of the imagination, and this album is your ticket, just turn out the lights and click play!
For fans of progressive rock, space rock, It’s an album that not only sounds incredible but looks almost as good as it sounds, thanks to its meticulous presentation.
In a world that often feels devoid of magic, Sendelica reminds us that it’s all around us, woven into the fabric of our myths, our music, and our very being. “Man, Myth & Magic” is a testament to that magic, and I, for one, am grateful to have been taken on this journey.
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine