Phlox — YWNTS CD

Band: Phlox
Title: YWNTS — You Will Need This Soon
Label: Self-Released
Format: Full-Length Album, CD, Jewel Case
Country: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Release Date: 2013
Genre / Style: Psychedelic Rock, Space Rock, Progressive Rock
Streaming Link: Bandcamp 

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Remarks:
"YWNTS" is a second studio album by Phlox consists of 7-track recorded in between October 2012 and March 2013. Most of the tracks were composed in 2008 till 2010 and the only track has been improvised in 2012 is track no. 6 named "YWNTS". The album is inspired by a journal titled "Love, Fear and Hope" which is about the presence of three qualities in our life. Most of the sounds in the album were a continuation and inspired by Pink Floyd's A Saucerful of Secrets and Ummagumma.

YWNTS (short for You Will Need This Soon) is the second studio album by Malaysian progressive rock band Phlox, released on May 24, 2013. Based in Kuala Lumpur, Phlox comprises Hakim Tahar (vocals, keyboards, guitar), Hanafi Rahman (guitars), Syazwan Sazali (bass), and Ahmad Zulikhwan (drums and percussion). The album reflects the band's evolution since their formation in 2008, following their debut album Quiver.

YWNTS consists of seven tracks, blending elements of psychedelic rock, space rock, and progressive rock. The album opens with "Oscar November," a mellow instrumental featuring acoustic and electric guitars with soft drums. "Cover Me" follows, showcasing a melodic bass line underpinning acoustic guitar, evoking comparisons to bands like The House of Love. "Pale, Blue China" introduces female vocals by Shehnaz Nazar, though the initial recording quality has been noted as subpar. The title track, "YWNTS," is a 25-minute improvisational piece inspired by early Pink Floyd, particularly in its organ sections. This track has been praised for its dynamic range and engaging composition. The album concludes with "The Unknown," an acoustic piece that provides a simple and pleasing end to the journey.

Critics have offered mixed reviews of YWNTS. While some appreciate the album's homage to classic progressive rock and its ambitious compositions, others have pointed out inconsistencies in recording quality and execution. For instance, the early part of "Pale, Blue China" has been criticized for its poor recording, though the latter half improves sonically.

Thematically, the album draws inspiration from a journal titled "Love, Fear and Hope," exploring the presence of these qualities in life. Phlox describes YWNTS as a story about a life full of hopes amidst a crumbling humanity, aiming to keep hope alive during challenging times. For listeners interested in progressive rock with a blend of psychedelic and space rock elements, this album offers a unique experience from the Malaysian music scene.