You’re alone, or at least you feel like you are. That’s the unsettling truth “Spells,” the first single from Lunar Gateway’s upcoming EP “Exhale,” confronts head-on. This post-punk, psych rock and garage rock outfit, originating from LA but now rooted in Atlanta, channels a raw energy that reflects the alienation and confusion of modern life.
The band, led by founding member and songwriter Mark Mallory, and energized by Demond on drums, Brit on bass, and Stephen on guitar, has deftly crafted a sound that transcends genres, blending elements of psych rock with their post-punk roots to create something uniquely their own.
Lunar Gateway has been a fixture in the local music scene, honing their eclectic live performances and slowly piecing together the songs that would define their future sound.
Their journey through the pandemic saw Mallory relocating to Atlanta, where he assembled a new lineup and embraced the vibrant local music culture. The result? An EP recorded and produced entirely in Mark’s basement, mirroring the raw aesthetic of their live shows.
“Spells” encapsulates the essence of Lunar Gateway’s approach. The song kicks off with an unsettling, sparse intro that soon erupts into a barrage of percussion, rhythm guitars, and bass. This progression feels both unpredictable and strikingly familiar, drawing listeners into its chaotic embrace.
The lyrics delve into the pervasive sense of isolation imposed by societal norms, with the chorus hammering in the haunting refrain: “illusion of, delusion of, confusion of your mind.” Mallory’s vocals drip with paranoia, amplifying the song’s themes of existential unease.
The track culminates in a distinctive outro, characterized by not one, but two guitar solos—a feature Mark describes as “gross.” This raw, unfiltered energy ensures that each live performance of “Spells” is a unique experience, with the band committing to never play the outro the same way twice.
The “Exhale” EP is set for release at the end of July and a launch party scheduled for August 1, 2024, at the iconic 529 venue, Lunar Gateway.
