Octopus Nebula

Colorado’s Octopus Nebula has recently opened up on the scene, impressing audiences far and wide with their new style of music that blends elements of electronic, ambient, downtemps, breakbeat, rock, acid jazz, and ethereal grooves.

Originally formed in 2004, the current incarnation coalesced in 2008 and consists of Fleeb Thomas on bass, Robin Bloch on guitar, John Safarik on keys, and Dan Raasch on drums. These musicians have come together not only to inspire the dance floor (which they do on a regular basis), but also to spread positive vibrations through music.

The rise of Octopus Nebula has been swift and complete, as was evidenced at the first show they ever played together, a sold-out gig at Colorado’s famous Mishawaka Amphitheater with musical icons from across the pond, Shpongle and Ott. In addition to these two major names, Octopus Nebula has shared the stage with such heavy-hitters as the Disco Biscuits, Random Rab, Bluetech, Lotus, David Murphy (of STS9), Ana Sia, Eskmo, Boombox, Signal Path, EOTO, and RJD2.

Currently laying out the textured psychedelic grooves for their first album, Octopus Nebula shuns the formulaic in favor of a purely original sound, a gamble that has paid off in the long run for this talented quartet. The music refuses to be classified and, as a result, gives the sense that the members of Octopus Nebula are truly breaking new ground.

Save the Clocktower

“With their psychedelic sensibility, the trio [now a quartet] that calls themselves Save the Clocktower does well when it comes to offering the unexpected. And yet, they excel at doing more than simply sidestepping predictability. Songs such as the hazy “You Got Me” and the loopy “The One Thing” come across as both bizarre and beguiling, showing their penchant for experimentation and cosmic concoction. Yet when they opt to tailor a soothing melody, ala “They,” or “Headphones,” the band shows they’re capable of more than mere mischief or mayhem. Indeed, the propulsive drive of a song like “Taped Noise” proves genuinely compelling despite its eerier attributes. Suffice it to say Carousel deserves a spin, despite --- or more likely, because of -- its share of intriguing twists and turns.” — Lee Zimmerman, No Depression

“strangely alluring and intoxicating, quirky and engaging” — Richard Milne, WXRT-Chicago