We Are Space Horses, a psychedelic rock band hailing from Somerville, MA, invites listeners on a genre-bending journey with their latest album, “Apologia.” Exploring the depths of retro rock music, the band’s unique sound infuses emotion and meaning, creating a dynamic and brooding experience. The album, set to release on December 29th, 2023, embodies a style the band humorously describes as “if Pink Floyd was influenced by Tool and not the other way around” or simply, “indie doom.”
“Apologia” diverges from the typical psychedelic rock landscape, offering a more experimental and genre-bending sonic experience. The album’s dynamic and brooding nature sets it apart, drawing inspiration from the experimental rock bands Swans and Godspeed You! Black Emperor. We Are Space Horses, consisting of singer/guitarist Kevin Vanderhoof, bassist Gabbi Vanderfood, and drummer Eric Hochwald, navigates through a spectrum of influences, resulting in a musical canvas that transcends traditional boundaries.
The term “Apologia” itself sets the stage for the album’s lyrical exploration. Meaning “a formal defense of one’s opinions or actions,” the lyrics delve into personal topics such as life after addiction, loss, religion, and childhood trauma. This depth adds a layer of introspection, turning the album into a sonic journey through the complexities of human experience.
The genesis of We Are Space Horses can be traced back to 2017 in Stroudsburg, PA, where Kevin Vanderhoof, already immersed in the local music scene, envisioned a project rooted in his love for 60s/70s psychedelic and progressive rock. Teaming up with Gabbi Vanderfood, the duo formed the Equestranauts and embarked on creating their first album, “Apologia.” The band underwent a metamorphosis, adopting the moniker We Are Space Horses in response to a frequently asked fan question about the mysterious “Equestranauts.”
After completing the recording of “Apologia” in Stroudsburg, Gabbi and Kevin moved to Boston in 2018, where they encountered drummer Eric Hochwald of Moon Machine. Enthralled by the band’s unique fusion of styles, Eric joined We Are Space Horses. The trio integrated seamlessly into Boston’s alternative and psychedelic rock scenes, bringing a refreshing and distinctive sound to the local music landscape.
The completion of “Apologia” was not without its challenges, including recording issues, personal milestones like weddings and the birth of a child, a global pandemic, and relocations. The album, a culmination of original recordings at Rock Hard studios in Stroudsburg and self-produced drum recordings at Sum Studios in Malden, MA, underwent a meticulous mixing process led by Eric. Despite the myriad challenges, “Apologia” is poised for release, promising a sonic experience that defies expectations.
We Are Space Horses’ “Apologia” stands as a testament to the band’s commitment to pushing musical boundaries. As the album unfolds, it beckons listeners to immerse themselves in its genre-bending richness and lyrical profundity. With influences ranging from Pink Floyd to Tool and an affinity for indie doom, We Are Space Horses has crafted an album that transcends the sunny stereotype of psychedelic rock, offering a perfect sonic companion for the cold winter months. Get ready to embark on a journey as “Apologia” unfolds its mesmerizing tapestry of sound on December 29th, 2023.
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