Release Date: April 25th 2025. Record Label: Kozmik Artifactz. Formats: DD/Vinyl
Cydonia Mensa - Tracklisting
1.Serpents of the Sun 04:27
2.Cydonia Mensa 05:40
3.The Sacred Light 04:39
4.Monuments 06:18
5.Temple of Saturn 05:06
6.Redeemer 04:06
7.Evolution Garden 04:27
8.Illumination of Knowledge 07:51
Members:
Craig Williamson - Everything
Review
Chances are that if you’re reading Outlaws of the Sun, you probably already know the name Craig Williamson. You might know his work from other bands such as Arc of Ascent, Dautra, and/or Lamp of the Universe. Or perhaps you better know him as the multi-instrumentalist and mastermind behind this one-man project named Dead Shrine. Well, after a two-year span since the highly acclaimed album The Eightfold Path, Dead Shrine has returned and here we are again soaking up another dose of heavy fuzzed out psychedelia and stoner rock riffage with Cydonia Mensa.
If you happen to be unfamiliar with Dead Shrine, you’ll soon learn from the beginning of ‘Serpents of the Sun’ that groove is a dominant enduring force behind the music. It’s recurring and utilized throughout Cydonia Mensa, holding you captive within its grasp. Another aspect of the album that will completely ensnare you are Craig’s vocals that are mostly accompanied by an echo effect, adding extra depth and space to his already efficient singing. There are even some backup singers on the title track ‘Cydonia Mensa’ and ‘Redeemer’ that bring additional texture to the mix.
For those that love wicked guitar solos, tracks like ‘The Sacred Light’ and ‘Temple of Saturn’ have got you covered. The guitarist sounds as though he’s in a contest with the devil as he blazes through with a Wah attack and delivery, banishing the evil spirit back to hell. Taking a step back from the more Stoner/Psych Rock sound is ‘Monuments’ with its repetitive Stoner/Doom-laden riffing and overall diabolical feel creates a dystopian landscape and seemingly conquers new territory for Dead Shrine. It is heavy, melodic, and my personal favorite of the album.
Another track that seems to broaden Cydonia Mensa into new realms is the Planet Caravan invoking ‘Evolution Garden’. Escorted by acoustic guitar and softer vocals it opens us to a celestial bath of Heavy Psych and fallen stars. ‘Illumination of Knowledge’ is a grooving song with a heavy low-end that not only summarizes Dead Shrine but also makes sure that just as the album began with a powerhouse that you’re left with one at the conclusion.
Fans of 2023’s album The Eightfold Path will most likely be delighted with Cydonia Mensa, it not only retains the signature Dead Shrine sound but also builds upon the framework that was laid down before with some nice surprises along the way. New fans will find plenty of qualities to relish as the album’s eight tracks are overflowing with endless groove and captivating moments. You’ll find yourself returning to it and who knows, Cydonia Mensa may become your new favorite album!
Words by Jon McGough
Cydonia Mensa is available to buy on DD/Vinyl now via Kozmik Artifactz and other good stockists.
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