Custard Flux: Oxygen

Just a short while ago I ws introduced to the Gregory Curvey led project Custard Flux. We last listened to their debut album Echo and now visit the band’s third release titled Oxygen. This time the results might be even better, perhaps a bit more varied than the first release.

The album opening title track begins with a wonderful slice of psychedelic pop music. The liberal use of harmonium adds a depth of lushness and the chorus is of earworm quality. During the verses the band offer up some tricky odd meter changes that keeps things interesting. “Gelatinous Mass� features fantastic saxophone and harmonium throughout its psychedelic landscape. The Beatles' influence can be heard in “You Can’t Get Away�, specifically the vocals reminding me of the great Harrison track “Within You, Without You�. “Monster Island� is catchy and upbeat but with threads of darkness coursing through and with “I Feed The Fire� the acoustic guitar work is exceptional. The delicious ‘60s pop of “She Opened Her Eyes� reminds me of XTC, which, for me, is always a good thing.

I think Oxygen will appeal to many of our readers across the board. Another excellent disc from Custard Flux!

The players:
Curvey (vocals, acoustic and bowed acoustic guitar, Flying V, acoustic bass, harmonium, harpsichord, piano, drum kit)
Vito Greco (acoustic, electric and Brazilian guitars)
Timothy Prettyman (double bass)
Walt Prettyman (violin)
Mars Williams (saxophones)

Track Listing:
1. Oxygen (4:17)
2. Gelatinous Mass (4:06)
3. You Can’t Get Away (3:36)
4. Quarantyne (3:27)
5. Monster Island (3:32)
6. I Feed The Fire (3:52)
7. She Opens Her Eyes (3:35)
8. Innocence and Peppermints (3:31)
9. Capacity Overload (8:44)

Added: June 26th 2025
Reviewer: Jon Neudorf
Score:
Related Link: Band @ Bandcamp
Hits: 561
Language: english

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