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Album Review

Souls Extolled – ‘Soulsex’ [Album Review]

On their fourth album ‘Soulsex,’ Souls Extolled channels a delicious, maximalist energy that’s at once sharper and more direct.

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Souls Extolled ‘Soulsex’ album artwork
Souls Extolled ‘Soulsex’ album artwork

Soulsex is the title of the new album from Austin, Texas-based indie-punk outfit Souls Extolled, whose sound blends elements of indie rock, psychedelic, and ska-punk influences.

Recorded at Austin’s historic Bubble Studio and produced by ChrisFrenchieSmith,” Soulsex reveals a potent indie, avant-garde sense that stems from the band’s almost mystical connection with their music.

Vocalist/guitarist Zach Black explains, “We feel like the album captures perfectly the meaning of the band. Souls Extolled has always meant a celebration of our souls, spirits, or unique consciousnesses through music or art in general.”

Entry points on Soulsex include “The Cut,” a gleaming psych-rock song featuring luminous guitar riffs and Black’s powerful, rasping voice that shifts to dreamy, melodic textures on the bridge. Whereas “Vanguard,” a personal favourite because of its retro indie-rock feel conjures up memories of Talking Heads crossed with The B-52’s. Vibrant vocal harmonies infuse the tune with persuasive energy.

Triumphant Monsters” combines hints of funk-lite, reggae, and psych-rock into pressing harmonics supporting passionate, fateful lyrics. There’s an ominous edge to this track.

Souls Extolled, photo courtesy Souls Extolled

Souls Extolled, photo courtesy Souls Extolled

Johnny TFC” rolls out on punk-flavoured, tight, almost dissonant guitars as Black uses his voice as a serrated knife. Choir-like backing harmonies add a holy, religious texture that’s initially disarming but works well, making the track more significant.

GOLD,” a shape-shifting indie-rock song, closes the album off with innovative style – heavy, platinum guitars atop a stuttering rhythm that alters to a driving flow, followed by swinging into a contemplative, psych-rock motion.

On their fourth album, Souls Extolled channels a delicious, maximalist energy that’s at once sharper and more direct.

Soulsex Track Listing:

1. The Cut
2. Vanguard
3. Triumphant Monsters
4. Fathers Before
5. Johnny TFC
6. A Star Is Born
7. GOLD

Run Time: 20:39
Release Date: January 2, 2025
Record Label: Independent

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