There are some songs that carry so much weight you almost shouldn’t touch them, but New York’s Vajra have decided to dive straight into the heart of a classic. The progressive art-rockers have just released their own take on Pink Floyd’s legendary “Set the Controls for the Heart of the Sun”, and it’s a bit of a belter. Released on the Spring Equinox, the track isn’t just a simple cover; the band are calling it a “continuation” inspired by the elemental atmosphere of Pompeii.
The title itself has always had a bit of a cool history outside of the music, too. Hardcore nerds (and yes, I am one) will know that the phrase was a bit of a favourite for Douglas Adams, who famously used it in The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy. Adams was actually close mates with Dave Gilmour – he even got to perform with Pink Floyd at Earls Court for his 42nd birthday – and that connection between the sci-fi master and the psych-rock icons adds another layer of cosmic cool to the whole thing. Adams is even credited with assisting on the band’s Division Bell album.
Vajra’s version is much heavier and more cinematic than the original, leaning into the vibes of bands like Tool or A Perfect Circle. Vocalist Annamaria Pinna and guitarist Dave Sussman actually travelled to Pompeii and Herculaneum to film the video, walking the same streets as the people who lived through the eruption of Vesuvius. Pinna has family roots in the region, so for her, this was a proper personal project to honour those lost in the catastrophe.
The track is out now via self-release and is well worth a listen if you want something that balances darkness and light. It’s got that ritualistic intensity that Pink Floyd pioneered, but with a modern, crushing edge that makes it feel entirely new. Give it a spin, but maybe sit in a dark room for the full effect.
Don’t fancy Patreon? Buy us a one-off beverage!
Check out our Classic Covers playlists from 2021 onwards
Vajra: facebook | instagram | spotify | bandcamp | youtube
