Already, we live in a time where psychedelic rock feels more organic and widespread than it has for some time with the advent of the digital underground, and I don’t think I’ll ever truly tire of its mysterious depths. From veteran acts continuing to show us their overwhelming mastery to aspiring musicians practicing their tripped-out riffs in their basements, psychedelic rock is far from done with us no matter if we feel like we’ve heard it all or not. One of the biggest joys in the style for me is simply being able to witness a band grow into its own no matter what its past may be. There are plenty of bands out there that I’ve had the pleasure of just that with, and From the Ages has to be one of the more unexpected names to do so.

When From the Ages came around two years ago with its debut that was simply titled “I”, I cannot lie and say that I was expecting much. It was a pleasant surprise and a more than interesting treat for the senses given the band’s history in other acts like Mammoth Salmon just to name one, and it was clear from the outset that the debut was a foundation that was quickly going to be built upon. Now, with the return aptly dubbed “II”, From the Ages returns to us with a doubled-down approach to the sound they brought forth in that debut with a greater sense of cohesion and understanding of their sound that immediately makes the piece stand out. Mostly instrumental apart from the smooth vocals in the opening track, “II” expertly delivers the goods that are always possible within the realm of psychedelic rock when things take an instrumental turn. Incredibly few things are off the table as it is throughout the whole of these six tracks that From the Ages expands their sound to not just include some riffs and atmosphere, but multiple instruments to further enhance the flavors, different approaches to always keep you guessing, and a sense of wanderlust that propels the album forward at every turn. Wrap it together with a great sense of musicianship and organic songwriting that keeps you roped in place no matter where it takes you, and “II” quickly grows into an offering that is as expansive as it is engaging and an overall damn good time.

Already, From the Ages is making its impression known. If the increase from “I” to “II” is anything to learn from then, should From the Ages stay the course and continue its trajectory, I have no doubt that we will earn great things from this act. No matter what direction they take be it to shed their instrumental tendencies or lean even further into them, From the Ages has started an undeniable trend of quality that we can only hope will not waver given the test of time.

LISTEN to “II” on Bandcamp here.

LIKE From the Ages on Facebook here.