Dead Lucid (Desolation)

Crank this to 8.3 of 11

Released: 2020

Genre: Psychedelic Rock

Sounds Like: Arctic Monkeys, The Stooges

Chicago natives Dead Lucid deliver their second EP continuing to move their sound in a positive direction. The three piece band feature heavy laden psych rock based with elements of post punk that gleam very old school Joy Division-esque landscapes. The EP has a myriad of different angles that make for a richly textured psychedelic journey. We are very impressed with the trio’s ability to let the songs breathe and infuse a classic tilt yet innovative direction. Lead singer Jon Grammer has an intriguing way and very relaxed vocal swagger. He also delivers some very impressive elaborate fretwork tangents throughout the EP. 

Track Listing: 

1. Romance (3:40) 

2. Rain (4:12) 

3. Ambrosia (6:59) 

4. Head (3:32) 

5. Desolation (7:02) 

Standout track: 

"Ambrosia" is a heartfelt melancholy track that reminds us the Pixies meets Kaiser Chiefs on downers. The track feels like it was recorded in a desolate hallway. Beautiful melodies shine throughout the track. 

Adult Beverage Pairing: 

Pipeworks Ninja vs. Unicorn at 8% ABV and brewed unfiltered out of Chicago Illinois is a perfect match for the raw psychedelic sound of Dead Lucid. 

ROTATION RECAP: 

Captivation and Variety 

8.7 out of 11 

Weight of the Heavy 

7.9 out of 11 

Vocal Performance 

8.4 out of 11 

Hallucinogenic levels 

8.2 out of 11 

Fretwork Prowess 

8.1 out of 11 

Percussion Prowess 

8.0 out of 11 

Overall Album Flow 

8.3 out of 11 

Contrast 

8.4 out of 11 

Album Cover Aesthetics 

7.8 out of 11 

Production Value 

8.4 out of 11 

Band members: 

Jon Grammer - Guitar/Vocals, 

Andrew Tschiltsch - Drums, 

Ryan Rhoades - Bass 

Final thoughts: 

Desolation is an impressive follow-up for the Chicago trio. The band infuses much more intrinsic style of meandering psychedelia. Less conventional standard melodies make for a much improved follow-up.

Follow Dead Lucid: Bandcamp / Facebook