Secrets of the Third Planet - Lost in Reverie

For Nugazer - just recently at least - it seems all roads lead east... Recent submissions from Ummagma and Foreign Television have highlighted a growing clutch of artists from Russia and its neighbouring states with a shared shoegaze dynamic and a blossoming global appeal.

It makes sense then, to once again set the controls to the heart of Moscow and take a retrospective look at one of 2011's most engaging EPs - Lost in Reverie, by Secrets of the Third Planet (S3P).

As the brainchild of Eugene Frankevich, S3P initially began life as a DIY solo project before expanding into the big-sound five-piece we recognise today. A brace of early releases (2007's self-titled EP & 2010 long-player Day Night) preceded Lost in Reverie as the band honed both sound and direction.

Exploring electronic influences and embracing reverb-laden melodies, Lost in Reverie also saw the introduction of vocalist Dasha Weo, whose dazzling contribution to Диафильм sits as a highlight of their back catalogue. Weo's swooning vocals add crystalline beauty to an astonishing, euphoric cut of adrenaline dream-pop.

There's diversity here too. Snarling acid loops drive the hypnotic electro-glare of Tonight, whilst opening track Still imagines Tangerine Dream wielding a pair of Fender Jaguars.

At the heart of the EP sits the breakbeat ambiance of Дыши, whilst we conclude with the synth-heavy charm of Autumn Song and another chance for Weo to shine in E-A (Lost in Reverie).

Lost in Reverie is a brilliant record and a tantalising glimpse of what the future may hold. With new S3P material scheduled for a Spring 2014 release, it surely won't be long before we all look east once again.