Outstanding new psychedelic rock groove song “Things Change” here now from Ajeva! • MUSICFESTNEWS

Outstanding new psychedelic rock groove song “Things Change” here now from Ajeva!

[Feature image courtesy of DJF Workshops: Photography & Multi-Media]

In the interest of time, most of this review comes from Ajeva’s press release of new single “Things Change.” I will add notes at the end, but honestly we cannot find a word out of place!

Ajeva returns with their newest single, “Things Change,” a hypnotic blend of indie rock textures, driving grooves, and lush synth melodies that capture the emotional tension of navigating an ever-shifting modern world.

Built around simple, infectious vocals and layered with swirling synth lines, “Things Change” balances introspection with movement. The track explores the idea of making conscious decisions as the world around us is evolving — reshaping the way we view ourselves, each other, and the possibilities of how life can be lived.

With a sound that feels both nostalgic and forward-thinking, Ajeva lean into psychedelic tones and rhythmic momentum to create a song that is equally suited for deep listening and late-night drives. “Things Change” taps into uncertainty without losing hope, offering listeners a reminder to stay grounded.

Seriously, no argument from me. At the recent Whippersnap Music & Arts Festival in February, we scribbled:

Consensus in these here parts is that Ajeva, the St. Pete band on the scene for more than a decade, truly belong in the national conversation. They are adept at funk, jam, rock, pop, livetronica and more, but their recent shift to include mind-blowing metal has people crowding to their shows. This set was, by many accounts, their best yet. Guitarist Mike Nivens is a beast. Period. The end. The quintet roared start to finish, opening with “Kiwi” and finally dismissing us with “The Sherpa/SAGARMATHA.”

Reed Skahill with his chameleon voice is the perfect frontman, and Lyndon Thacker on keyboards adds great depth and the color to the music. A long take on “Lady (Hear Me Tonight)” exploded, and then Queen Kanika appeared in robe, ready to rock out. As the band played the first notes of “Highway to Hell,” Kanika tossed off the robe, showing off her black body suit and blue fox tail. WOW! After she left, that rhythm section (again the rhythm section!) led the blistering “RODENTMOUTH.” Founding member Taylor Gilchrist rocked the bass, and recent addition Tucker Sody continues to surprise and delight at drum kit. BRAVO!

The St. Petersburg quintet — Reed Skahill, vocals, guitar; Taylor Gilchrist, bass; Mike Nivens, guitar; Lyndon Thacker, keyboards; and Tucker Sody, drums. — head to the midwest for a run of shows next weekend.

05/20  Kenny’s Westside | Peoria, IL 
05/22  Mackay’s Hideout | McHenry, IL 
05/23  The Mousetrap | Indianapolis, IN  **w/ Mycota & Atlas Radio
05/24  The Summit Music Hall | Columbus, OH 
05/25  Stanley’s Pub | Cincinnati, OH