Flame of Life has been making waves in the ever-changing music scene since they burst onto the scene in 2015, and they’ve truly carved a unique spot for themselves. Now, they’re back with “Saturn,” their latest album, which adds yet another layer to their rich catalog of musical innovation. The band started with Fazer’s soul-stirring vocals and The Bottle’s electrifying guitar riffs, setting off on a mission to mix a whole spectrum of sounds into what they’ve passionately coined as lazer music. This isn’t just any mix, though—it’s a heartfelt blend of gritty grunge, pulsing industrial beats, and a dash of chaos in their song structures, making their sound unmistakably theirs.
The band’s lineup has seen several additions over the years, each bringing a unique flavor to the ensemble. From the punk-rock enthusiasm of Cowboy on drums, a former rally driver with no prior musical background, to the oriental elements introduced by Amsheah on electric guitar, Flame of Life’s sound has evolved into a complex tapestry of musical influences. Damien Nolan on keyboards and Dead Flower on bass further enrich this mix, adding layers of synth guitar sounds and gothic undertones.
Their latest release, “Saturn“, is a 14-track journey that not only showcases the band’s signature blend of industrial and lazer music but also ventures into the use of Sakmalayan, a dead language, for its lyrics. This choice underscores the band’s focus on creating an immersive atmospheric experience over conveying a specific message. The album is described as not fitting the mainstream radio mold, appealing instead to those looking for a deeper, more nuanced musical exploration.
The genesis of Flame of Life is a story of diverse musical influences coming together. The Bottle’s grunge roots, Fazer’s admiration for Cradle of Thorns, and Cowboy’s punk-rock leanings have collectively shaped the band’s sound. This diversity is reflected in the semi-chaotic structures and melodic yet rough textures that define their music.
“Saturn” follows on the heels of “El Kama” and continues the band’s tradition of blending experimental sounds with their established lazer aesthetic. Prior works, like the “Atomic Cocktail” and the self-titled “Flame of Life”, laid the groundwork for this unique musical journey, with each album marking a phase in the band’s evolution.
As for what fans can expect next, Flame of Life hints at an exciting collaboration with the Tunnels, another band they teamed up with for a tour in Norway in the fall of 2023. This partnership extended into the studio, where they exchanged creative ideas and worked on new songs. While “Saturn” leans heavily into the band’s lazer tradition, it also revisits some experimental elements from their earlier work, signaling an ongoing exploration of their sound.
“Saturn” is now available for listeners on Jamendo, offering a new opportunity for both long-time fans and newcomers to dive into Flame of Life’s distinctive sonic world. The band’s presence on platforms like Myspace and Soundcloud further facilitates their connection with the audience, allowing for a broader dissemination of their music.
In essence, Flame of Life’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of music. Through their constant experimentation and fusion of genres, they have created a sound that defies conventional categorization. “Saturn” is not just an album; it’s an invitation to explore the depths of music, free from the constraints of language and traditional structures – and we’re here for it.
