Critiques CD: Midnight Juggernauts | The Crystal Axis

This Melbourne threesome and its shimmering ‘80s synth rock spent the fall of 2007 touring with Justice. Not a bad way to draw attention to your debut record. They’re back with sophomore effort The Crystal Axis, a more ambitious exploration of cosmic guitars, seductive ‘80s echoes and mysterious synths. The boys have toned down the arena rock gimmickry, which gives greater incentive to delve into their otherworldly, dreamlike soundscapes. Songs like “Lifeblood Flow” – with its rousing chorus and ethereal synth spirit – and the hushed, echoey vocals on “Fade to Red” take us on a cloud of hazy nostalgia that’s well worth the ride.