I’m fascinated by this new project out of Costa Rica called Lost in Psalms. I stumbled across it online, gave it a go, and really liked it. But the entire time, I couldn’t help but think I recognized some of the performers. Turns out, I was correct. The album is called End of a Kalpa (another word for aeon), and it released on January 22nd.
Lost in Psalms is the brainchild of multi-instrumentalist Gerardo Ruiz, though I’m not sure which instruments he plays. Strangely, the rest of the performers on this album are members of the band Time’s Forgotten, who put out the excellent Songs of Awakening last year. That would be guitarist/keyboardist Juan Pablo Calvo, guitarist Ari Lotringer, vocalist Priscilla Ruiz, and drummer Jorge Sobrado.
This is a poignant record. The music here is progressive rock and metal that leans into a spacious, soaring style. I love the expressive guitar work and how cosmic it sounds. Priscilla’s vocals are powerful and convincing, as always. The rhythm section is groovy, too. This album has the whole package as it explores how human beings use religion as a balm for their pain and suffering. It goes beyond that, too, exploring eternity as it comes to an end.
End of a Kalpa is only 34 minutes long, but it feels complete. The six tracks are well-conceived and one can tell time and passion were spent on developing them. I also like the album structure: four tracks with vocals and two instrumental beauties. Gerardo really gave this consideration.
In the first half, we get the terrific opener “3 a.m. Breakdown”, a breathy and emotional track which slowly increases in intensity. “Dukkha (Good Old Wine)” follows and is more melodic, more hovering. I love the last few minutes, especially how Priscilla sings the vocal lines. “The Suffering” ends the first half with a splendid instrumental track; the guitar work is soaring and beautiful. I could listen to it for hours.
In the second half, we start with “Threshold”, which has a smooth ambience and pleasing tempo that I really like. It’s sung very well yet again. It’s one of those tracks that goes unnoticed on the first listen but soon becomes a favorite. “Healing Mantra” comes next and is the second instrumental piece: I love how it starts out as another spacious and serene piece, but we get some grit and energy in there, too. Again, I could listen to this all day. It’s beautiful. The closer is the title track and is probably the catchiest overall. I find myself singing the main hook throughout the day. It has such a graceful feeling, especially when the final guitar solo hits. It just feels comforting somehow.
Lost in Psalms is a great new project. I hope Gerardo keeps making music. This album, exploring how humans ease their pains, feels like a healing balm itself. It is rich and truly beautiful from beginning to end.
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Find Lost in Psalms online:
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The PROG Mind 