PODVIG!’s debut track, Cloud Maze, is a thrilling and ambitious journey through the vast expanses of stoner space rock. Emerging from the spontaneous collaboration of three talented individuals—Al King, Ivan Drybas, and Eugene Smozhevsky, the track represents a beautiful fusion of diverse musical backgrounds and creative energy. What started as an impromptu jam session has evolved into a finished piece that is both contemplative and explosive, showcasing the raw power of live improvisation. With its slow-building introduction and seismic crescendo, Cloud Maze takes the listener on an expansive journey through sound, guided by the mesmerizing interplay of guitars, keyboards, bass, and groove boxes.
The track opens with a dreamy, hypnotic vibe, as a delicate guitar riff dances over the soft, ethereal hum of synths. It’s the kind of introduction that invites you to sink into the music, letting the intricate layers unfold slowly. The first few moments feel like floating in space—distant yet intimate, calm yet full of potential. As the track progresses, the rhythm section begins to pulse, subtly increasing the tension as the tempo starts to build. The pacing is deliberate, allowing the soundscape to expand and breathe, creating an anticipation that something immense is just around the corner.
And then it arrives. As Cloud Maze accelerates toward its climax, the music transforms into a roaring wave of sound, as though the listeners are breaking through the clouds and into a cosmic storm. The guitars, expertly played by Al King, burst into fiery solos, while Ivan Drybas’ atmospheric keyboards provide texture and depth. The track reaches a powerful peak, a crescendo of stoner rock energy that feels liberating and overwhelming. The improvisational nature of the track is evident in these moments, as the musicians weave their talents into a collective force, pushing each other to new heights with every note.
One of the most captivating aspects of Cloud Maze is the way it navigates the space between controlled chaos and meditative moments. Eugene Smozhevsky’s bass work, alongside his use of groove boxes, adds a rhythmic complexity that serves as the track’s heartbeat. This grounding force contrasts with the soaring guitar and keyboard lines, creating a dynamic tension that keeps the listener engaged throughout. The track’s ability to move seamlessly between quiet, introspective passages and thunderous climaxes speaks to the band’s mastery of their craft and understanding of musical narrative.
Ultimately, Cloud Maze is a stunning introduction to PODVIG!’s unique sound—a blend of stoner rock, space rock, and experimental improvisation that has the power to transport the listener into another world. The track’s evolution from a recorded jam session to a fully realized song is a testament to the band’s chemistry and willingness to explore musical boundaries. Mastered by Bill Sellar at Super Audio Mastering, Cloud Maze sounds expansive and refined, with each layer of sound carefully balanced to create a rich listening experience. PODVIG! has crafted something special with Cloud Maze, and this track serves as an exciting first glimpse into the possibilities of what’s to come from this eclectic and talented trio.
