When last year dolled out the utterly massive effort from the mysterious entity known as Neptunian Maximalism (NNMM for short) known as “Éons”, I think it’s safe to say that no one was prepared for the over two-hour long experience of mind-melting psychedelia and flavors that put a test to the very concept of metal as music nor was anyone prepared to see the record absolutely wash over the scene like it did. It was rightfully so that the reception was given to that release, however. It truly pushed the boundaries of the respective style and so much more to provide us with an experience that is utterly unique virtually right from the instant your eyes lay on that cover art. But now, it’s with a surprisingly speedy reply that NNMM returns to us with an effort that is more than a match to follow-up such a standout performance.

Instantly, my favorite thing about what NNMM does here is the simple fact that “Solar Drone Ceremony” consists of one track drawn out over 50 minutes overall, and if you know me you know that the very concept gets me going like nothing else. But, what’s important to note here is that NNMM has not only crafted an overwhelming aural experience again but a visual performance that’s insanely unique by all accounts. “Solar Drone Ceremony” comes along with a DVD in its physical packaging and, full disclaimer, I have not seen it so we’re just discussing the audio portion of this creation, but in no way does that detract from the utter mastery that’s on display here for the sheer entirety of these 52 minutes. Much like its predecessor but having its root much earlier in the band’s history as a radical overhaul of previous work by the band, “Solar Drone Ceremony” brings together elements from some of the most different kinds of music out there from droning doom metal, free jazz, and all things psychedelia to craft something that makes the mind shutter at the thought of but the ears rejoice in earnest! It’s also another album that is almost unbelievable to experience simply because many of our preconceived notions of what music is possible and “should” be are thrown completely to the wayside, and it couldn’t have been done in higher fashion as NNMM returns just a year later to deliver us another performance that is sure to be another massive highlight of not just heavy music of the year, but all music of every kind from all over.

The very essence of this record can be encapsulated by the feeling of being utterly overwhelmed by a raw power that has been expertly condensed, shaped, and honed to the very will of NNMM to become another massive work that not only melts the brains of all who hear it and bring forth musical creations heretofore unthought of, but it sets a new standard for experimental music in every form. Right from the very concept of this album, “Solar Drone Ceremony” has been destined for greatness alongside cult status much like its predecessor, and it is to be with just a single listen that all who dare oppose NNMM will find themselves devastated by all that is accomplished in this single performance.

“Solar Drone Ceremony” releases on April 23rd via I, Voidhanger Records!

LISTEN to an excerpt of “Solar Drone Ceremony” on Bandcamp here.

LIKE Neptunian Maximalism on Facebook here.