Rob’s Album Of The Week: NovaBound’s Sevenths

Part of what makes music great these days is how artists take bits and pieces from numerous styles. It can result in something stunning while also being refreshingly original. This approach is so much better than being locked in a genre box. With a hodgepodge of psychedelic, pop, jazz and indie rock, NovaBound from Piscatway, New Jersey is an excellent example of this with their debut full-length, Sevenths, that was self-released on November 22. The sonic variety exhibited is both mystifying and intriguing to the senses.

NovaBound is the moniker of one Michael Andrew Agulto. He had assistance on the record from his brother Arthur on guitar and Kevin Basko guiding the process on production. There’s definitely a Beatles-esque vibe going on and it’s due to the White Album having a big influence on Agulto’s songwriting. It’s also rare to hear one person performing numerous instruments, which is impressive. It’s a testament to Agulto’s unique talents that has to be embraced.

Speaking of influences, an interesting one of Agulto’s is video game soundtracks. Specifically the ones behind Super Mario Galaxy and Luigi’s Mansion. That could explain the complex melodies and structures that are accented by the keyboards. It could also explain the entire tone of the album. To explore this and more, here are my top tracks off of the Album Of The Week: