Astro Rock

...is a term coined by Brave Saint Saturn (another favourite band of mine, consisting of former members of the defunct but legendary Five Iron Frenzy).

It refers to their own breed of rock, which is entirely anchored in astronomical concepts. So far spanning across 3 full-lengths, their lyrics revolve around tales of astronauts’ struggle (and at times, failure) to survive in space, all the contrasting emotions that rage inside them as they hover alone million miles from Earth and the sense of accomplishment and victory in their homecoming. It is not an occupation for the timid and it’s really interesting to hear astronauts' trials and tribulations being told in a form of rock music. (Recommended sample: “Daylight”)

It just dawned on me that a few of my other choice rock bands could be considered astro rock too.

Bad Astronaut is an off-shoot band consisting of punk rockers from different bands. They assembled with deep-rooted spirit of punk rock, took inspirations from places beyond the atmosphere, added some mellow heart-wrenching sensibilities with strings, pianos and acoustic guitars, injected some masterful and versatile songwriting, and poof! – you are gifted with a rare gem of original music. (Recommended sample: “Autocare”)

Growing up in the late-90’s, Blink-182 played a huge part in introducing me to guitar distortion and power chords. Plus, I never imagined such immature silliness from an adolescent’s viewpoint actually had a place in music. It was really refreshing, at least for me. Almost a decade later, Tom Delonge grew way older and his musical outlet widened with Angels and Airwaves. Characterized by uplifting melodies and huge U2-inspired guitar works, layered with futuristic electronica that aliens in space might bop their head to, he seems to do the refreshing thing again. (Recommended sample: “Call to Arms”)

And off course I can’t lecture you about my definition of good music without mentioning Coheed and Cambria. This band bases their whole career on an epic tale of cyborgs, space ships, as well as cosmological conception and destruction as penned by geek-genius Claudio Sanchez. Claudio Kilgannon (his own character in the story) is cursed with a power to bring an end to the Keywork galaxy he lives in. Off course he uses it to battle an ominous army and seek retribution from a high-ranked villain with undisputed supremacy who caused deaths of his semi-robotic parents. (Recommended sample: “From Fear Through The Eyes of Madness”)

So if I ever feel like laying on a field, watching the stars, wondering if there are lives out there beyond our reach, I would play my favourite astro rock music. Maybe E.T. will stop by and have a chat.