pg.lost is a band I wish I had known about sooner. They basically do all the things I love when it comes to instrumental progressive post rock/metal. They have big melodies and riffs plus tons of atmosphere. “Versus” is my first exposure to them and I am quite blown away.

It starts with “Ikaros” which sounds like a heavier version of Mogwai (I love them too). The synth on the track is cool and I love the multiple guitar hooks that happen throughout the track. “Off the Beaten Path” is a mini epic with some really powerful riffs. That song hit me right off the bat. “Monolith” starts off as a change of pace with its throbbing synth. The song kicks in and basically glides along effortlessly. The song has plenty of drama and atmosphere.

The title track is aptly named. It’s made up of rather different vibes. The beginning reminds me of Mogwai (again), it could be a track on “Hardcore Will Never Die.” The big synths and the melodic guitar lines are perfect. BUT the song changes midway through to a thick, heavy riffing track. The title points out the differences between the two parts of the song, the first half versus the second. Brilliant.

“Deserter” has a subtleness to it. It has this headbobbing groove to it that you aren’t aware of until you notice what you are doing. It’s subversive! “Along the Edges’ has an odd melody but like everything on “Versus,” it WORKS! It builds through the verses and has a big chorus riff. “A Final Vision” is a cross between a slow, majestic number and pulsating space rock that finishes the album in an appropriate manner. “Versus” is an album of beautiful dichotomies.

Where have you been all my life, pg.lost? In Sweden, I know. It’s so awesome to find bands like this. Too often I think I’ve heard everything but then an album like “Versus” comes along and shakes me. This is how to make powerful instrumental music. “Versus” is without a doubt one of the better albums of 2016.

Rating: 9.5/10

Tracklist:
1. Ikaros
2. Off The Beaten Path
3. Monolith
4. Versus
5. Deserter
6. Along The Edges
7. A Final Vision

Label: Pelagic Records
Facebook: www.facebook.com/pglost