Nebula Nine - The Last Sky Piercer EP
Courtesy of Imperative PR
Independent Release | February 28, 2025
In an time when space exploration captivates the public's imagination, Sweden's Nebula Nine releases their debut EP The Last Sky Piercer, a conceptual trip through humanity's final exodus from a dying Earth. This four-track progressive rock odyssey combines atmospheric soundscapes and theatrical vocals to produce something that defies easy classification.
The story recounts humanity's exodus via "Sky Piercer" ships to avoid our sun's eventual expansion. While the concept might sound grandiose, Nebula Nine approaches it with surprising intimacy. Each track feels like a personal diary entry from the edge of existence, rather than a bombastic space opera.
The opening title track establishes the tone with ethereal melodies that float like cosmic debris, building tension through carefully layered instrumentation. "Terminal" follows with a psychedelic swagger that wouldn't feel out of place in a 1960s rock collection, its nervous energy capturing the anticipation of interstellar departure. Terminal is my personal favorite off the four-track EP.
"Blood Red Eyes" marks the EP's emotional peak, opening with meditative tones before evolving into something mysteriously cosmic. Vocalist Simon Malm channels a 60’s rock style shamanistic delivery while adding his own dramatic flair. The closing track "Maroons" showcases the band's theatrical side, with sweeping vocals reminiscent of old school Meat Loaf's storytelling style, building to a crescendo before dissipating into the void.
Produced by Hans Olsson (known for work with Horisont and Graveyard), the EP benefits from a mix that gives everything room to breathe. While comparisons to Pink Floyd are inevitable given the psychedelic undertones, Nebula Nine cuts with a little more clarity through the cosmos. This isn't technical prog-rock showmanship - it's a mood piece that prioritizes atmosphere over complexity.
The quartet (completed by Hampus Pettersson on bass/keyboards, Linus Person on drums, and Robin Karlsson on lead guitar) has created something that transcends traditional genre boundaries. The Last Sky Piercer is best experienced in solitude, where its meditative qualities and existential themes can fully resonate.
For anyone looking for progressive rock that favors emotion over technical prowess, The Last Sky Piercer offers a nice journey through the stars.
