E.P. Review: Lesotho - Summer Wars
Reviewed by Paul Hutchings
If you fancy something both relaxing and with an edge of cerebral challenge, the debut E.P. from this Boston, MA three-piece may be just the thing. Lesotho play instrumental post rock/metal in a way that captivates the listener, transporting them far away.
The trio comprise guitarist Kyle Loffredo, drummer Zach Ganshirt, and bassist Cliff Cazeau and were formed in 2020, at a time when many were isolated. The four tracks all have a heaviness that should appeal to those who like intricate musicianship, ranging from crushingly heavy segments to ethereal shimmering elements within the same pieces.
The band say that their only rule is that they follow no rules and with a raw emotion that surges through their music, the only thing to do is allow the oncoming rush to sweep over you, immersing deep in the moment.
The four tracks share emotive melodies, gripping thrashy parts and even elements that one might link with black metal, such is the intensity and ferocity. Nowhere is this better demonstrating than in the raging middle section of ‘Pride & Sorrow’, the soaring peaks stunning in their drama and sweeping soundscapes. The song evolves, emerging from a wall of sound into shimmering guitar, backed by a steady and calming rhythm section. It’s clear from listening to this E.P. that the three musicians like to push themselves, and their voyage of discovery to this fresh release is fuelled by influences such as Caspian, Isis, Cave In, and Black Sheep Wall. The delicious acoustic intro on ‘To See with Eyes Unclouded’ provides a startling contrast, before it too races into a cacophony of explosive music that one cannot hold back for any length of time.
With a polished production, the four tracks are crisp yet retain an earthiness that one would want. This is an E.P. which suggests that Lesotho have a promising future. It’s worth a listen, even if only to submerge into a kaleidoscope of sonic bliss for 20 minutes and blot out the day.
