Towards the end of 2019 a quite-the-noisy record was released: Blase' Faire, the prog-rock album by Salem, New Hampshire group Strange Conversations touched down with its killer beats and swirling synth embellishments. The grandiose guitar solos that throwback to ‘80s hair glory found in tracks like “Stranglehold (Like Yesterday)” are thrilling and perfectly placed. From thunderous instrumental breakdowns to more serene-pensive tracks like “Better Late Than Never,” the band showcases its versatility and instrumental prowess. The new record has an old-school feel to it but a very modern edge sharpened by a solid production. Listen to the sick guitar riff that slithers between the atmospheric instrumentals of “Spirals” from the new album below. - Rene Cobar