The second album by the Spanish band Ekzilo represents a huge impact and evolution from their debut, "Ekzilo" (2020). The band has incorporated new elements into their music and taken a giant leap forward in terms of sound design.
The first thing that strikes you are the vocals, present in two of the tracks, ranging from more melodic (and somewhat catchy) vocals to raspy vocals, reminiscent of the Swedish band Opeth, especially in the first track, "Patibulum," with constant changes and, curiously, no electric guitar riffs. Jose Ruiz's work is fantastic, full of personality, based more on solos and rhythmic/melodic lines than on classic rock/metal riffs.
After the initial surprise of the first track, three entirely instrumental and extremely varied songs follow. "La fábrica de barro" practically takes us back to the late 70s, close to the Laietan rock vibe (!!!), and confirms the tremendous variety of the album. A beautiful song. "Dunas" (one of the preview songs) perfectly blends modern progressive rock with a Spanish feel and magnificent lead guitar work. And pay attention to that middle section with jazzy piano. "Brujería" brings us the purest Andalusian influence of this band, with sublime instrumental work (that bass!). That flamenco guitar coda to finish is beautiful.
By the time "Evolution" arrives (and the short final cut "Epílogo"), we've already seen the variety and instrumental (and compositional) versatility of the band, but in this track, everything is amplified even more. It's a song that requires several listens to fully assimilate. There are many cuts, many different parts, many genres (jazz, rock, metal, flamenco, space rock!). Here, the vocals return (clean and guttural; one of the great innovations in the band's career). Pay attention to that beautiful, space section in the middle of the track (the variety of timbres and different sounds Paula uses on this album is impressive, a spectacular piece of work), which may remind you of Porcupine Tree/Steven Wilson. Undoubtedly the group's Magnum Opus, and 18 minutes that mark a new path in the band's career.
Definitely a surprising album on all levels. "Ekzilo" (2020) was a very good album, but this "Quantum Phase Transition" is absolutely on another level. A wonderful album, very original, that mixes genres and musical ideas that might not work together, but that do. Production, composition, and musicianship are on par with any current group I can imagine. AWESOME 10/10.
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