Review: Spiral Galaxy ‘II’
This is not the first time I have crossed paths with Plastic Crimewave, aka Steven H. Krakow, having previously had the pleasure of reviewing his 2022 Plastic Crimewave Syndicate album Space Alley, a powerful excursion into psych-heavy rock territory.
I still remember Krakow’s reaction to that review, which was not exactly one to be cherished, partly because he reproached me for not mentioning the earlier cassette releases.
Given that it was a review, rather than a discography, he could have let it pass. But music is a constant journey, and every encounter offers a new opportunity to discover an artist’s wider vision. So, rather than looking back, it feels right to move forward and explore this new chapter of his creativity.
With Spiral Galaxy, Krakow reveals a different side of his musical personality, one that moves into a more spiritual, cosmic and meditative dimension alongside flautist Sara Gossett, a constant creative presence in both Plastic Crimewave Syndicate and Spiral Galaxy. Together they have created a unique sonic universe where flute, vocals, guitar, synthesisers, machines and subtle percussive elements interact to form a deeply immersive experience. Their music is an invitation to slow down, clear the mind and become absorbed in a celestial atmosphere where sound becomes a form of exploration.
Their journey began with the 2020 self-titled album, a release that introduced their shared vision and expanded their sound through collaborations with a remarkable group of experimental/krautrock and psychedelic musician luminaries, including Hands Of Hydra, Matthew Shaw (both appeared on their previous EPs), Makoto Kawabata of Acid Mothers Temple, Faust’s Jean-Hervé Péron, Illinois psych folk jazz guitarist Ryley Walker, Alisha Sufit of the legendary ‘70s psych folk Magic Carpet, Taralie Peterson, Will Maclean, Christian Luke Brady and Jean-Marie Varain. Rather than simply adding guest appearances, these contributions helped create a rich and open musical environment where different traditions of improvisation, psychedelia and experimental music could naturally merge.
They have also released two live recordings, and with II, the duo once again embrace collaboration, welcoming the production and creative input of Chicago’s legendary maverick artist Bobby Conn, alongside his sidekick violinist Monica BouBou. The album is further enriched by the contributions of avant improvisers Drazek Fuscaldo, folk musicians Jen Powers and Matt Rolin, synth player Jimmy Lacy and drummer Lawrence Peters, each bringing their own colour and personality to the expansive sound created by Gossett and Krakow.
a deeply rewarding and evocative record that captures the spirit of cosmic exploration…
The result is an album that feels like a journey into the inner and outer reaches of the imagination. It carries a strong meditative quality, creating a feeling of floating through vast cosmic spaces while remaining deeply connected to human emotion. The celestial atmosphere recalls the spiritual depth of Popol Vuh and the exploratory spirit of the German kosmische movement of the 1970s, yet Spiral Galaxy transform those influences into something personal and contemporary.
Through Gossett’s expressive flute and Krakow’s layers of guitar, synth, machines and vocals, the music unfolds patiently, revealing new details and subtle transformations with every listen. It’s one of those albums that completely draws me into its own world every time I hear it. From the earthy, mantra-like opening of E’Glynner, I immediately feel transported somewhere both ancient and cosmic, setting the tone for a truly immersive journey.
One of my favourite moments is Axos IV. Its mystical kosmische-folk atmosphere feels beautifully hypnotic, and Bobby Conn’s spoken-word performance adds an extra layer of mystery, as though he’s telling the story of a forgotten civilisation drifting among the stars. It’s a track that invites me to slow down and simply absorb every detail.
Then there’s Future Fauna, which creates an enchanting, almost Garden of Eden-like atmosphere. The music feels alive, full of natural beauty and quiet magic, leaving me with a real sense of peace and wonder. It’s one of those pieces I find myself returning to whenever I want to escape the everyday.
What I love most about II is how effortlessly it balances the earthly with the celestial. It never feels forced or overly ambitious – just a beautifully crafted album that unfolds naturally, revealing something new with each listen. For me, it’s a deeply rewarding and evocative record that captures the spirit of cosmic exploration while remaining warm, organic, and genuinely magical.
Label: Cardinal Fuzz | Feeding Tube Records
Band Links: Facebook | Bandcamp | Instagram
Scribed by: Domenico ‘Mimmo’ Caccamo
