Jess and the Ancient Ones are an occult rock band from Finland and this is their fourth album.
This is the follow up to 2017’s The Horse and Other Weird Tales. On Vertigo, psychedelic rock and tentative progressive rock, (with a hint of garage proto-doom), collide. Across eight tracks, Jess and the Ancient Ones provide 40 minutes of occult rock that’s steeped in sixties influences and old-school vibes, as well as a high quality song-based style.
Dominated by organs and the singer’s infectious, warm voice, the songs are well-written and very moreish. Every song has a different highlight, and the number of hooks is beyond count. The band’s music is full of character and charisma. Every band member gets a chance to shine, while the singer’s exquisite voice remains the focal point for the majority of the time.
The band’s approach is one that gives the listener songs that combine pop-appeal, soulful depth, and an underbelly of almost-forgotten esoteric darkness to explore. Each track feels like a portal back in time. Do they still write songs like this anymore? Jess and the Ancient Ones do, and they do so with skill, confidence, and aplomb.
This really is very good stuff. Make sure you don’t miss out Vertigo.
Wonderbox Metal 