From glorious Sweden strides a unique Prog Rock act, SATURN, throwing in a little Heavy Metal, Blues and Stoner vibes to create their first release, "Ascending". In reality, it's very hard to classify this band, as the influences and sounds come from far reaches of the musical world. All in all, the piece is up-beat when it wants to be, knows when to be toned it down to a slow chill-out.

The opening track is perhaps the most aggressive track on this record with meaty guitar riffs, supported by a notably growly and percussive bass performance, with chord progressions that quite simply remind me of 'spaghetti westerns'. Behind the in-your-face aggressiveness and presumably predictable chord progressions is a surprisingly deep track, with mature lyrics and meaning that require a focused listen. Perhaps the perfect way to start the record, because it feels to me as if that is what this album is all about; it appeals to me as the most important track on the release. Regardless, the track takes a turn towards the complicated and technical as it progresses.

"Over the Influence" was another significant talking point for me, mostly because of its length; at over 8 minutes, the longest on the record. On this track are probably the most nods towards the realms of psychedelic, Blues Doom, purveyed by many of their near cousins in Finland, pointing out the likes of ORNE. It is a slow, pounding drudge through time, reminiscent of the transitions in the 70's between Blues Rock and Metal. Once again, I am thoroughly impressed with the musicianship by all of the members. "Last Man In Space" easily stood out as the most Metal-oriented track on the record; the riffs and chord progressions instantly take my mind back to classic IRON MAIDEN... That is, until the track takes a tumultuous turn in the other direction, dominated by slow, but tasteful, instrumental mastery.

Bands like SATURN make it very easy for me to appreciate music that I almost never listen to and realize, objectively, its merits. Because this band certainly has many of those.