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Astra biography
ASTRA originates from the band SILVER SUNSHINE which was founded in San Diego, California. Richard Vaughan (guitar, vocals), Conor Riley (guitar, keyboards, vocals) and Stuart Sclater (bass) are aboard since the beginning in 2001. The predecessor band had released one EP and a full album until founding member Iain Andrew Sclater (drums) decided to leave in 2006. After much discussion they arrived at a decision to continue under the new name ASTRA.

This came along with some changes for the sound and line-up. Drummer/multi-instrumentalist David Hurley joined soon. The band began to record some demo songs and toured the west coast of the US. Guitar wizard Brian Ellis finally completed the ASTRA line-up and the band was ready to produce the debut album 'The Weirding' which was released on Rise Above Records in May of 2009.

ASTRA stands for progressive rock music with psychedelic roots. The sound also incorporates heavy rocking as well as symphonic organ and mellotron infected elements. Based on a skilled songwriting this is presented in a rather 70s retro style including some long tracks showing jamming parts where the band members let the music flow and evolve.



THE WEIRDING 2009

1. The Rising Of The Black Sun (5:44)
2. The Weirding (15:27)
3. Silent Sleep (10:41)
4. The River Under (8:41)
5. Ouroboros (17:23)
6. Broken Glass (3:45)
7. The Dawning Of Ophiuchus (5:29)
8. Beyond To Slight The Maze (11:36)


THE BLACK CHORD 2012

1. Cocoon (8:45)
2. The Black Chord (14:59)
3. Quake Meat (6:41)
4. Drift (4:39)
5. Bull Torpis (2:56)
6. Barefoot In The Head (9:13)


Singles/EPs/Fan Club/Promo, released in 2009

WINTER WITCH / COSMIC WIND ( MP3 )

1. Winter Witch (5:01) 
2. Cosmic Wind (5:04)

2010 Astra& Diagonal (7'' split)

1 - Astra - Empty Spaces.mp3
2 - Diagonal - Stop.mp3


http://music-by-request.newforum2u.com/