If Christopher Nolan ever finds himself in need of a soundtrack for the epic moments of an imagined ‘Interstellar‘ sequel, he might just discover that Tides From Nebula’s ‘Instant Rewards‘ fits the bill perfectly. These compositions, when merged with a fertile imagination, become the blueprint for an awe-inspiring science fiction saga.
Emerging after a five-year hiatus, this album is a kind of a renaissance. Over the years, Tides From Nebula have become maestros of musical storytelling. Their meticulous and dedicated honing of their craft is evident, yielding results that are nothing short of impressive. Sure, they’ve had moments in the past that didn’t quite hit the mark, but ‘Instant Rewards‘ firmly reasserts their creative prowess and versatility.
The band’s evolution in composition is evident, culminating in what can only be described as a production tour de force. This achievement is significantly attributed to the blossoming skills and professional mastery and wizardry of Maciej Karbowski and Tomasz Stołowski at Nebula Studio.
The recording sessions helmed by both gentlemen himself laid the groundwork, while Jacek Miłaszewski’s expert mixing and mastering added the final polish.
Dynamic? Absolutely—and it’s not just a fleeting impression. The album bristles with energy and edge, banishing any traces of monotony that occasionally surfaced in their more ambient or electronic ventures.
While electronics still weave through the soundscape, any initial apprehensions in the album’s opening moments are swiftly allayed. The synths find their rightful place, enhancing rather than overshadowing. The result is a power and vigor—not merely from the pulsating drum sequences but also from the riffs that snarl with newfound ferocity.
On a personal note, this intensified dynamism delights me to no end. I was fortunate enough to witness the band’s nascent stages, the thrill of their inaugural concert in Warsaw still vivid in my memory. Their performances back then were a melting pot of eclectic sounds, often sharing the stage with artists who leaned towards the heftier end of the sonic spectrum. This fusion etched them in my mind as an instrumental band brimming with astonishing dynamism and a distinctive bite—a rarity both locally and across Europe. It’s invigorating to feel that spirit rekindled, returning not just in whispers but with grand, resounding echoes.
It’s heartening to think there’s still a vast audience out there, waiting to be captivated by this unique style—listeners who perhaps haven’t yet stumbled upon the niche that Tides From Nebula so masterfully occupy. Even among post-rock junkies, there’s a chance that many are unaware of the band’s singular subgenre.
Whether they’re weaving dreamy soundscapes or unleashing torrents of energy, there’s something authentically unique here, and they have every reason to wear that pride openly.
In the grand halls where post-rock giants reside, the thrones may seem securely held, but perhaps it’s time to acknowledge that Tides From Nebula are steadily claiming their rightful place among them.
Consider this your personal invitation to the ‘Instant Rewards Tour 2024.’ This series of gigs will see the band bringing their latest opus to life across Poland. While we eagerly await announcements of international dates, for now, the schedule is as follows:
14.11.2024 – Poznań, 2 Progi
15.11.2024 – Szczecin, Słowianin
16.11.2024 – Grudziądz, Akcent
17.11.2024 – Łódź, Scenografia
20.11.2024 – Wrocław, Stary Klasztor
21.11.2024 – Siemianowice Śląskie, SCK
22.11.2024 – Olsztyn, MOK
23.11.2024 – Gdańsk, B90
24.11.2024 – Białystok, Zmiana Klimatu
27.11.2024 – Rzeszów, Pod Palmą
28.11.2024 – Lublin, Zgrzyt
29.11.2024 – Kraków, Hype Park
01.12.2024 – Warszawa, Progresja
They’ll be joined on this journey by the band In2elements.
