There's three songs on Purple Gaze, each one of them breathing the same, hazy atmosphere but still quite different from each other. Using influences from post rock, stoner rock and progressive metal these guys from Pateros Metro Manila (Philippines) have composed some very strong tracks.
The longest one, 'Purple Drank' is a solid, lengthy post rock anthem, supported by dreamy soundscapes and layered guitars in best Explosions In The Sky tradition. 'Sungaze' reminds me of Monkey3, be it a bit softer and with some psychedelic elements. These elements grow even bigger in the final track 'Tristful Ecstacy', a song that seems to have escaped from the late sixties or early seventies and comes very close to krautrock.
This variation almost make the e.p. sound like a compilation but an excellent compilation nonetheless.So yes, this is a highly surprising e.p. from a highly talented rock band. The metal roots have dissapeared into the background but are clearly present in the song structures.
These guys have spend many years trying to master their instruments and are now ready to take their craftsmanship to the next level. I can only applaud such an evolution and I recommend this gem to every post-rock, stoner rock and psychedelic rock fan out there. We better keep an eye on these guys...
Serge