There’s something so ethereal and soothing about most sci-fi records that come to mind. David Bowie, who Kaptain Kollnot actually covers on his latest four-track EP, Future Human, is one of the most famous examples of an artist who utilized space themes through silky-smooth, atmospheric ballads. You can imagine my surprise, then, when I listened to the first track on Future Human, entitled “Black Star Alliance” (potentially another Bowie reference) and found myself skyrocketed into the stars on a wave of scorching electric guitar. And yet, there’s still that tinge of sci-fi to Kaptain Kollnot’s sound. Instead of a space cruise, however, he takes us on a whirlwind ride at warp speed. The metal-infused guitar has such a crystal-clear, melodic, anthemic quality. Though the track is instrumental, the lead guitar is so punchy and prominent that it almost serves the purpose of a lead vocal hook. Additionally, the crunchy rhythm guitar progression and double-bass drumming both lend themselves well to this stunningly chaotic introduction to Kaptain Kollnot’s newest EP. This is how a rock musician should open an album.
The raucousness only continues on “Demon of Retribution.” In fact, Kaptain Kollnot only dials up the mayhem. We’re finally introduced to his guttural, brutish vocals on the second track, and it’s well worth the wait. I was particularly blown away by the vocal harmonies. The screeching, high-pitched wailing atop his lower growls reminded me of iconic bands, such as Iron Maiden. I was particularly mesmerized by the lightning-fast guitar riff, manic drumming and consistent energy from start to finish. There are headbangers, and there are headbangers. This is the latter.
“Exodus From Orion” is Kaptain Kollnot’s foray into prog-rock. The 10-minute track is a demanding listen for anybody with a short attention span, but it’s well worth the patience. The marching beat in the opening segment created a bold introduction to what proves itself as another scorching rock banger. The meaty rhythm guitar and sizzling lead guitar create another brutal aesthetic, as do the growling vocal harmonies. It’s another massive track. The softer, smoother vocals in the chorus were also a sweet and melodic treat.
The EP closes with “Starman (David Bowie cover).” I love the original, so I waited with bated breath for Kaptain Kollnot’s vocals to emerge. I was pleasantly surprised. He’s thrown in some huge, scorching chords and distorted lead guitars to give the track a classic rock feel, but it mostly feels like an authentic and true tribute to the original. It’s a fantastic closer. Kaptain Kollnot is certainly a talented musician to watch.
