Crown Lands releases a review of their album, “Ritual I & Ritual II.”

Growing up in America, I was exposed to stereotypical portrayals of Native Americans as either adversaries or friendly companions in popular culture. However, as I matured, I became aware of the grave injustices and suffering experienced by indigenous communities as they were displaced from their lands and mistreated by settlers and the government. Similarly, the First Nations peoples in Canada endured similar hardships, which were often overlooked in mainstream education in the United States. Nonetheless, Cody Bowles and Kevin Comeau of Crown Lands have made it their mission to shed light on these issues through their music.

Having made a notable entrance into the music scene with their debut self-titled album and the subsequent “Fearless” released through Universal, Crown Lands draw inspiration from Canadian icons Rush, showcasing a progressive rock sound. However, their latest offerings, “Ritual I & Ritual II” on InsideOutMusic, represent a departure from their rock roots, delving into ambient territory. These EPs, each about thirty minutes in length, are an immersive experience that pays homage to indigenous Canadian cultures through the use of flutes, percussion, and synths.

The music featured on Ritual I and Ritual II is a fusion of traditional and contemporary influences, creating a unique sonic landscape that is both soothing and thought-provoking. The inclusion of indigenous flutes adds a distinct element to the compositions, challenging listeners’ perceptions with non-traditional intonations. While the initial exposure to this music may be dissonant to Western ears, repeated listens reveal a deeper connection to the cultural heritage that Bowles and Comeau are keen to explore through their art.

Not conforming to traditional song structures, the tracks on these EPs invite listeners to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of sounds, transcending the boundaries of conventional rock music. The rhythmic elements, often derived from West African percussion instruments, offer a fresh perspective on indigenous musical traditions that are often overlooked in mainstream genres. The ethereal quality of the music encourages listeners to embrace the experience and appreciate the nuances of indigenous culture embedded in the compositions.

While “Ritual I & Ritual II” may not cater to every musical palate, the innovative approach taken by Crown Lands is a testament to their commitment to pushing boundaries and exploring new sonic landscapes. These ambient offerings serve as a bridge between their rock albums and hint at a promising evolution in their musical journey. It will be fascinating to witness how these projects influence Crown Lands’ future rock releases, as they continue to push the boundaries of progressive music.

In conclusion, Crown Lands’ “Ritual I & Ritual II” showcase a bold exploration of indigenous cultures through ambient music, offering listeners a captivating experience that transcends traditional genres. Through their innovative approach, the duo has succeeded in creating a musical tapestry that honors their heritage while pushing the boundaries of progressive rock. As they continue to evolve and experiment with new sounds, Crown Lands are poised to leave a lasting impact on the contemporary music landscape.