SC Distributon

Cycling past the deep trips of previous Landing outings, Sphere settles into a gently rock-y world. Landing are known for dishing up a mildly psychedelic mindscape; with this album they have reconfigured their oeuvre to include the traditional tools of psychedelic rock: more drums, more rhythm, more “songs”. Recorded at their own Hi Mid studio, Landing have crafted a softly vacillating sound, a rippling set of tones, a feeling that is akin to their Vessyl brethren Yume Bitsu, Version and Surface of Eceon. The Vessyl is a loose collection of abstract collaborations between like-minded psychedelic legionnaires. Landing has been the flagship combo of the Vessyl, a champion launching uncounted voyages through light.

On previous albums, Landing has offered up everything from clean intertwining guitars to long curtains of unimpeded sound sculpture. Each release has had its own feel, usually focusing on one side of the band’s abilities or the other. Passages Through, Landing’s fourth full-length, is an attempt to incorporate all sides into a flowing tapestry of songs. This release marks the fullness of Landing as friends and collaborators. Songs such as “Wings of Light”, “To See You”, “It Is Shining”, “Breathing”, and “Tell Myself” were written as a band and recorded live to tape with few overdubs, each band member adding his or her own distinct touch. Instruments were switched without ego and all thoughts were geared to the music, regardless of genre or classification. Passages Through does not fit easily into any one category, be it “space-gaze”, “drone” or “post rock”. This is the sound of four great friends playing music that comes from their hearts. Sometimes, the music sprawls out like vast oceans. At other times, the songs are clean and filled with heartfelt sentiment. Never before have Adrienne and Aaron dared to be heard so clearly, but the result is well worth the risk. Landing’s first release on K records is a rebirth of sorts. The songs are clear and the tryyps are deep. This is Landing in 3D.