Smooth Retsina Glow
Smooth Retsina Glow—Colin Wolf, Natalie Expraxia, and Quincy Wellen—craft an album that feels like a nod to their wide-ranging influences on Through the Needles Eye. The cover art alone, reminiscent of '80s metal aesthetics, immediately draws you in, setting the tone for what’s to come: a blend of styles that refuses to settle in one place.
The opener, “Against Any Odds,” dives straight into jam band territory, evoking the Grateful Dead’s free-flowing spirit with a touch of Creedence Clearwater Revival’s swampy rock edge. It’s an energizing start, rooted in classic rock traditions but with enough flair to stand on its own.
“Fervor” follows, and it’s one of the album’s strongest moments. The intricate drum and guitar patterns, along with transitions into atmospheric soundscapes, create a dreamy, immersive experience. The band’s use of dual vocalists adds a unique dynamic that elevates the track further.
On “Never Conform,” vintage synths meet a seamless vocal split, giving the track a distinctive edge. The biggest surprise comes with “Relapse Collapse,” where the band plunges into speed metal territory, unleashing rapid-fire drumming and guitar solos. It’s an unexpected shift but executed with impressive skill.
“Lockstep” takes things in the opposite direction—a softer, almost nostalgic take on '50s pop, delivered with a modern touch. Tracks like “Mayleen” and “Feigning Grace” continue to explore new territory, dabbling in soul influences, while “Virtuality” plays with tempo shifts to keep things engaging. The title track, “Through the Needle’s Eye,” adds a '90s alt-rock vibe to the mix, proving the band's willingness to explore various sounds.
Closing with “After All of This,” the album wraps on a high note, showcasing one of its most inventive moments and leaving a lasting impression.
If there’s any critique, it’s that Through the Needles Eye can feel a bit scattered in its stylistic shifts. But the performances are so strong that the album’s eclectic nature becomes more of a feature than a flaw.
