If it has been said once, it has been said a thousand times: there’s no school like the old school. Whichever course you take, there’s something about that classic tutelage that has a particular kind of magic that can still easily flow today, but it takes the right kind of student and the right kind of mindset to bring it all about in such a form that feels organic, engaging, and, above all else, authentic. That’s a complicated formula to nail for even the most competent of acts. However, it’s every now and then we get a name that manages to blow expectations out of the water. Channeling old school progressive rock in a way that feels fun and engrossing for all that it offers, Moundrag singularly impresses with their second offering.

From the cover art alone, you should be able to tell that there’s something about this record that you already can’t quite put your finger on, but there’s something about that mysterious nature that’s already drawing you into the effort. The name of Moundrag is one that I’ve seen floating around over the years but never have I found the time to actually sit down and see what they had to offer. Within the first ten minutes of what they summoned to bring “Deux” to life, I knew I had made a terrible mistake in not checking this band out sooner. Right from the beginning, Moundrag takes your hand and takes you into a swirling dimension of rich colors, exquisite flavors, and undeniable power that one cannot help but become enchanted by the riffs, psychedelia, and potent songwriting that “Deux” boasts in damn near every given minute! Driven by an overwhelmingly gorgeous set of keys, “Deux” is an eclectic blend of sci-fi, fantasy, rock’n’roll, dramatic craftsmanship, and 70s majesty of a sort that we really get to see in such an audacious creation, yet Moundrag makes it look damn near effortless. Each track has something bold to call its own whether it’s a gripping anthem or an exploration into the album’s themes; “Deux” has so much to offer for any and every listener.

This is what it means to fully lose yourself in your sound, become one with it, and dish out an experience that is downright career-defining by all aspects. Moundrag’s reputation certainly precedes this record, yet it is practically each carefully crafted facet of “Deux” that the word “masterful” is almost demanded to be used. Magical from the get-go, Moundrag has made an experience that’s sure to leave a lasting impression on your psyche and soul.

“Deux” releases on October 17th via Spinda Records and Stolen Body Records!

LISTEN to advanced tracks from “Deux” on Bandcamp here.

LIKE Moundrag on Facebook here.

FOLLOW Moundrag on Instagram here.