Estradasphere - Palace of Mirrors
Estradasphere is one of the craziest bands I’ve ever come across. When I hear them, I hear a klezmer band, a bluegrass group, a jazz outfit, a chamber ensemble, a sometimes metal band, and so on. What sets them apart is the depth to which they explore genres. Whereas, say, Mr. Bungle might merely reference genres within a song, Estradasphere convinces you that you’re shucking corn, drinking wine with gypsies, or chasing bad guys in a ’70s movie.
The only other recording I’ve heard from this Santa Cruz band is its debut, 2000’s It’s Understood. It was actually not understood, at least by me, as the band hopped from genre to genre with dizzying skill, a fondness for Nintendo sounds, and absolutely no cohesion.
Palace of Mirrors (on The End) is much more cohesive. The writing is tight and the song sequencing is smooth. The album is essentially a series of mini-soundtracks in search of films. “Smuggled Mutation” is the most metallic tune here, but it mostly makes one want to dance the hora. The violin work on it is smoking. “Those Who Know…” is a spectacular combination of Lalo Schifrin and spaghetti western, with jew’s harp and Japanese shamisen licks. Ennio Morricone is probably kicking himself for not having written it.
Estradasphere – Smuggled MutationEstradasphere – Those Who Know…
Those who know good music, metalhead or not, should hear Palace, as these clips only hint at its riches. You can find it at The End.
