Glass Beams, a burgeoning band, has recently emerged onto the music scene, quickly gaining traction amidst a growing demand for authentic, acoustic live performances. Their latest album, "Mahal," has made its full debut on streaming platforms, yet fans can already enjoy these tracks in dynamic live performances on YouTube. With a distinct aesthetic that initially drew attention to their first releases, Glass Beams has seamlessly blended captivating visuals with exceptional music, engaging audiences and leaving a lasting impression.

Despite the apparent simplicity of their compositions, Glass Beams' tracks showcase a depth that belies their straightforward structure. With the guitar weaving hypnotic, rhythmic melodies and the bass maintaining an infectious groove, enhanced by chimes and other intricate sonic elements, the band demonstrates remarkable skill and proficiency in maximizing the potential of their three instruments.

While repetition is a central theme in their music, Glass Beams deftly avoids monotony through the artful performances of their talented musicians, who effortlessly find their rhythm and create a compelling musical experience. Moreover, the infusion of synths and other FX sounds further enriches the sonic landscape, ensuring that each track evolves organically and remains engaging throughout.

Some artists that may have influenced this album include Ravi Shankar and Electric Light Orchestra. The band’s founder has told the media he watched the “Concert For George” DVD with his father. This concert was a tribute for George Harisson, which included some of Harrison’s favorite songs. George really liked the artist Ravi Shankar, and if you put two and two together, some influence can be heard. Glass Beams is based out of Melbourne, and I think the best phrase I found to describe their music is “serpentine psychedelia.” I would like to add to that description and put the word “expensive” somewhere in there. How about if I coined the phrase “Expensive Snake Rock”?

The album Mahal is great as a whole piece. I can really listen to the whole album and not even notice it go by. Or I could sit down and try to listen to every little detail and enjoy it in that way. A lot of people have really taken to Glass Beams’ first releases. This would not be surprising for a pop star-shoot or a rap prodigy. It is surprising, though, for a band like Glass Beams. Surprising and very much refreshing. The rawness and authenticity of this band reminds me of the same thing you get from a band like Khruangbin. The drums are snappy and tight. The bass is too. The floaty and reverberated sounds do take up a lot of space, but nothing in the song feels muddy or out of place. To my frustration, there are no names on the production or songwriting credits. I mean, not that it really matters, I am just nosy like that. The album was simply produced, written, and performed by Glass Beams. Whatever they are up to next, I am excited to find out.

Author: Peter Källman

Peter Källman is a writer from Sweden who loves playing in bands, writing reviews and going to live shows!