It’s been years since we’ve heard new music from Queens of the Stone Age, but this might just be the tonic needed for long-serving fans. Tropical Gothclub is the new solo project of Dean Fertita, who boasts a seriously impressive list of bands. ‘Wheels Within Wheels’ is the debut single and is the first taste of what to expect from the self-titled album, set for release November 4th via Third Man Records.
Speaking with Consequence of Sound, Dean says: “Tropical Gothclub as a concept is futuristic nostalgia,” he says. “Going through the seven stages of escapism, understanding the subliminal messages I’ve been sending and receiving to myself, and letting fantasy take a machete to the darkest corners of my mind. I want subculture shock and volcanic rock.”
That all sounds cryptic and fantastic, and ‘Wheels Within Wheels’ certainly brings that energy. Its title reflects on the kaleidoscopic noise that seems to evolve and loop endlessly, cut through by ear shredding guitar solos, thunderous drum fills and a main riff that could transport you to the centre of Earth at a moment’s notice. The gritty bass tones add a fuzz that distorts the mind, allowing the rest of the instrumental to simply turn into mush. It is enthralling, exciting and unlike nothing I’ve heard before.
As you can probably tell, I am beyond excited to hear more from Dean. Tropical Gothclub looks to be an emerging act that is certainly one to watch.