Ready for something groovy, fun, and mystical?  Step into the psychedelic haze that is Alunah’s latest release, Fever Dream.  This shapeshifting album holds an array of musical influences and takes listeners on a journey.  Each track has something a little different to offer while still flowing together in an aptly dreamy way.  Created from extensive jam sessions and periods of riffing together and soul searching, the album is a perfect representation of the band.  Without holding back or being pulled by outside influences, Alunah has come together and made the music they want to hear and the music they are truly passionate about.

Alunah’s core sound is a combination of classic rock, doom, psych, sludge, and stoner.  In Fever Dream, they add some additional sounds including retro melodies. blues, piano, and flute.  The album opens with “Never Too Late” giving an upbeat instrumental intro before Siân Greenaway’s vocals ring out.  This track gives classic rock energy through and through with a melodic guitar solo, and ballad-like vocals with an additional contribution by Francis Tobolsky (Wucan).  “Trickster” introduces flute for the first time on the album, adding a whimsical touch and enhancing the overall theme and feel of Fever Dream.

Greenaway’s vocals shift and change throughout the tracks between rock goddess, calm and quiet, and reverberating harmonies.  In the title track, the echoing melodies ringing out give a 60’s feel akin to Jefferson Airplane.  The vocals are flowery, the harmonies are stunning, and the lyrics flow and swirl with the music.  This is one of my favorites on Fever Dream as it is channeling this psychedelic time while still being unique and current.  Another favorite of mine that moves heavier into doom territory is “Sacred Grooves.”  It opens with a faraway, echoing guitar melody before drums and vocals enter.  The ebb and flow of this track is captivating, moving between quieter calm moments and heavier riffs.

An instrumental piece is introduced about halfway through Fever Dream that starts very jazzy and light, featuring flute and lightly swinging cymbals before moving into a bluesier style of guitar.  This eventually shifts into more doomy riffs showcasing the wide range and talents of the band.  Somehow these styles flowing into one another works and fits into a track that is under three minutes.  The album closes with “I’ve Paid the Price,” featuring piano by guest musician Aaron B. Thompson (Rosalie Cunningham).  More blues influence is heard here with the combination of piano and slower, moodier melodies.  The track goes out with a rocking bang with each member giving their all and playing with an emotive passion.

Fever Dream marks the end of an era after seven stellar albums as Greenaway is parting from the group to pursue a solo career.  The album is a perfect last work together and celebration of the band.  This does not mean the end of Alunah as Matt Noble (guitar), Dan Burchmore (bass), and Jake Mason (drums) will continue on their musical journey.  I feel as though these strong musicians could continue the band as an instrumental outlet, but I am curious to see if they welcome a new member to contribute vocals.  It will be interesting to see if the band decides to maintain the sound or lean heavier into another direction. I know that wherever they decide to take the music, they will continue to put out awesome songs and I look forward to their next release.

 -Angela

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Fever Dream is available September 20 via Heavy Psych Sounds.  For more information on Alunah, visit their official Facebook page.