Gesso - Nunca Os Céus Se Tornarão Lugares

Gesso's much-anticipated second album, titled 'Nunca Os Céus Se Tornarão Lugares,' is a profound and emotive musical trip that transports listeners to a dimension where the boundaries of time and emotion blur into an enigmatic, grey-tinged landscape. Comprised of four sprawling tracks, each with its own unique identity, the album emerges as a powerful identity to the band's evolution and creative prowess. Joel Fausto, Rúben Sequeira, and Flávio SA, hailing from Santo Tirso, Portugal, have masterfully crafted an auditory experience that delves into themes of nostalgia and the nebulous nature of existence.

Released in April of 2023, 'Nunca Os Céus Se Tornarão Lugares' is a voyage that beckons the listener to explore the depths of their own memories and feelings. The album's four lengthy tracks—'Não Me Levem,' 'Cinzas,' 'Homens Se Tornam Réus,' and 'Berço Em Flor'—serve as pillars upon which the band constructs a landscape rich with emotion and introspection.

The album's artistic vision extends beyond the music itself, as it is accompanied by a visually striking nature-grey artwork meticulously photographed by Sara Peixoto. This cover art encapsulates the essence of the album, conveying a sense of longing and reflection, much like the music it introduces. It's a snapshot of the world Gesso invites us to explore—a world where beauty exists in the melancholic shades of grey.

Gesso's musical influences are deeply rooted in the legacy of Portuguese songwriters such as José Afonso, António Variações, and Fausto, who have left an indelible mark on the country's musical landscape. 'Nunca Os Céus Se Tornarão Lugares' pays homage to these icons, weaving poetic and evocative lyrics into its tapestry. The album channels the spirit of these legendary songsmiths, embracing their ability to convey profound emotions through their music.

Yet, Gesso doesn't stop with the Portuguese songwriting tradition. They draw inspiration from the proto-doom bands of the 1970s, infusing their compositions with elements ranging from Psychedelic Rock to Heavy Doom Metal. The result is an organic, emotionally charged sound that transcends conventional genre boundaries. It's a sound that captivates and transports, inviting listeners to surrender to its hypnotic embrace.

'Não Me Levem,' the opening track, sets the tone for the album with its slow, brooding introduction. The weight of the music hangs in the air, heavy with emotion and anticipation. Guitars resonate with a somber beauty, and Joel Fausto's haunting vocals emerge like a mournful echo from the past. As the track unfolds, it's impossible not to feel the weight of nostalgia and longing that permeates every note.

'Cinzas,' the second track, continues the journey, building on the atmosphere established in the opening piece. It's a meditation on the transience of life, a lament that unfolds with deliberate patience. The guitars and bass create a tapestry that envelops the listener, while the drums provide a steady, heartbeat-like pulse. The lyrics, sung in Portuguese, are poetic and evocative, adding layers of depth to the music.

'Homens Se Tornam Réus,' the third track, takes a darker turn, delving into themes of guilt and redemption. The guitars take on a more menacing tone, and the rhythm section drives the music forward with relentless power. Into the depths of the human psyche, a reflection on the choices we make and the consequences they carry. The lyrics are delivered with raw intensity, making this track a visceral and emotionally charged experience.

'Berço Em Flor,' the final track, serves as the album's cathartic conclusion. It begins with a delicate, almost fragile melody that gradually builds in intensity. As the music swells, it feels like a release of pent-up emotions, a moment of clarity amidst the grey haze of nostalgia and it ends with a very lively moment of synthesizers and a beat taken from traditional Kautrock .

Throughout 'Nunca Os Céus Se Tornarão Lugares,' Gesso's musicianship is nothing short of exceptional. Joel Fausto's vocals are a haunting presence, conveying a sense of vulnerability and longing. Rúben Sequeira's drums work is masterful, heavy and rhythmic. Flávio SA's bass and  create a solid foundation upon which the album's emotional weight rests.

In sum, 'Nunca Os Céus Se Tornarão Lugares' is an album that transcends mere music. It is a visceral and emotional love into the grey and nostalgic corners of the human soul. Gesso's ability to channel the spirit of Portuguese songwriting legends while infusing their music with elements of proto-doom is a testament to their creative vision and artistic integrity. This album is an invitation to explore the depths of one's own emotions, a reminder that beauty can be found even in the most melancholic of places. It is a masterpiece that will linger in the hearts and minds of listeners long after the music has faded away, a testament to the enduring power of art to touch the soul.