Breathe Into Form | Nebula Sun | Album Review

Released: May 2025

Run Time: 44 minutes 37 seconds

Country: England

Type: Album

Genre: Jazz | Psychedelic | Prog

Nebula Sun are a Norwich-based collective with a focus on psychedelic, jazz, and progressive music. They are also one of my favourite bands to listen to when I’m studying or relaxing; their laid-back vibe is perfect to accompany any activity. Their new album ‘Breathe Into Form’ encapsulates everything Nebula Sun represents and debuts some new styles for the band. With a focus on peace, finding yourself, being present, and appreciating what you have, Nebula Sun this album encapsulates self-discovery and is the perfect LP for summer. Join me in exploring the record, I recommend listening to it as you read.

Master Healer

The first single released from the album, Master Healer brings a slightly country-inspired fleck into the psychedelic discography of Nebula Sun. The way the harmonised brass parts join a heavier bassline feels powerful. Wonderful vocals mimic the brass and join together to create a beautiful harmony. A switch in drum pattern and tempo at 2:30 segments the song and creates a clear section for instrumental. Nebula Sun’s message persists to be one of self-love and healing, and with lyrics such as ‘you are the sky, you are the stars’ and ‘you are the medicine’, it isn’t hard to believe that you are a ‘Master Healer’. This song is about identifying growth within yourself. Accompanying the chorus is a clapped rhythm, chunky bass, and electric guitar solos, building up to an epic climax and then dropping to round the song to a close. This is an incredibly strong opening song for this record; it sets the tone for the songs to follow.

Into Form

A relaxed, soulful sound introduces ‘Into Form’ with strummed, reverbed guitar and vocals joined in magical harmony. This song is about belonging and becoming your true self ‘Free the people, free your mind.’ No song on this album is without its grunge inspiration, as proved again by distorted electric guitar solos woven into the gorgeous brass duet solos. Being strong in the face of hardship is a prominent theme within ‘Into Form’ as you feel the music become stronger, you feel yourself become stronger alongside it. The guitar section towards the closing of this song feels like a layer of armour, as reflected in the song's lyrics about becoming stronger. 

Oceans

The second single release leading up to this album, ‘Oceans’ quickly became the most streamed song of Nebula Sun’s and it’s no surprise why. With more of a rock-influenced sound, ‘Oceans’ is carried by a metal-inspired sounding guitar part, vibrant brass, and a heavier drum beat. At 2:27, the vibe of the song changes to become softer with echoed vocal runs, making you really focus on the lyrics. A message about creating a new version of yourself to walk into an improved future, ‘Oceans’ is positive and reflective. The vocals are performed with much care and passion by lead vocalist Tommy Jonson. Who knew that distorted guitar and jazz could pair so well together?

Reflections

Setting off with an unusual rhythm, ‘Reflections’ has almost an ominous feeling compared to the bright or slightly more relaxed previous tracks. Each instrument is given a spotlight during the opening section, allowing the full range of instrumental talent to shine on its own. When the brass hits at ‘2:10’, it feels like the climax of a film and the villain has just won, to then be resolved in the next section. I can imagine that this song would be incredible to see live, and I hope I get the privilege to do so. This piece is entirely instrumental, however, the brass solo at 4:30 feels like a vocal solo with mind-blowing runs and incredible flow. If you are a fan of jazz, this song is definitely the one for you.

Sonar

Let me start this off by asking who in the world doesn’t like chanting in unison? A prolonged note with gathered chanting introduces this relaxed track. We have a section of instrumental before we are joined again by the chanting that now mimics the guitar part before an entire switch at 3:00. The song becomes upbeat, with hand-drummed rhythm, cymbals, and a danceable guitar riff. I can absolutely see myself moving to this at a festival in the sun, it’s summer encapsulated. A funky guitar solo transitions us from the upbeat section as we return to the original rhythm of the song. Featuring some unbelievable brass solos, we are taken on a journey to the outro, where we are once again joined by the chanting, bringing us full circle to where we began. This song is an adventure, taking you through genres and exploring each one in depth.

Radio Child

From the get-go, this song is inspired by Arabic music, it’s fittingly melodic, and successfully delivers us to the lyrical section, a short verse that introduces the song before leaving the music to tell the rest of the story. Easy listening, the solo section begins with extremely reverbed guitar, then united with brass and a fast drumbeat. The solo section concludes at 5:05 when we are returned to the heavier, darker experience from earlier. Each instrument executes an amazing solo to then all unite and play together for a spectacular climax.

Traces

A cheery, strummed guitar opens this song with a hummed melody and an indie feel. Upbeat and soulful, ‘Traces’ sends a message regarding making positive change and appreciating what you have and what you can do to assist others. The pace changes at 3:37, slowing us down and bringing forth soft, charming brass solos that make all of my troubles melt away. This track is comfortable to listen to, yet holds your attention in each section with its genre influences and unpredictable variety. A perfect end to an impressive debut album.

I had the pleasure of talking to Nebula Sun about this album, its influences, and the creative process, amongst many other things. The video interview will be available to view here.

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