Ethan Miller has expanded his Odyssey Cult project into a sprawling psychedelic supergroup for the release of the new album Vol. 3. Released via Silver Current, the record arrives nearly a decade after the project debuted in 2017 with two solo LPs, Vol. 1 and Vol. 2, which were entirely crafted by Miller himself.
Known for his work in bands such as Comets On Fire, Howlin Rain, and Heron Oblivion, Miller has now gathered an extensive roster of underground rock musicians to execute his expansive, fuzz-driven musical vision. According to coverage from Stereogum, the newly formed supergroup brings together veteran instrumentalists and vocalists to build a sound that is both raw and grand.
The latest iteration of the Odyssey Cult shifts the project away from a solo endeavor into a collaborative effort featuring notable figures from across the independent and psychedelic rock landscapes. The resulting tracks balance noisy exploration with melodic structure, offering a dense listening experience for fans of the contributors’ various other bands.
Building the Foundation of Vol. 3
The creation of Vol. 3 began with a core trio working closely together in the studio. Ethan Miller reunited with his former Comets On Fire bandmate Ben Flashman, who handles bass duties on the new record. Alongside them, Anthony Taibi of Carlton Melton contributed on keys, helping to lay down the initial sonic framework for the album.
As the project expanded, Miller brought in additional firepower from the underground scene. Former Sonic Youth drummer Steve Shelley, who currently plays alongside Miller in Orcutt Shelley Miller, joined the lineup on drums. Saxophonist Zoh Amba—who has also been exploring a rootsy indie singer-songwriter direction—contributed saxophone textures to the tracks.
The collaborative sessions also feature guest appearances from prominent vocalists and musicians. Brigid Dawson of Osees, Paula Frazer of Tarnation, and Inna Showalter of Magic Fig all contributed to the record, adding depth and vocal variety to the project’s heavy, psychedelic foundation.
The Evolution From Solo Venture to Supergroup
When Miller first introduced the Odyssey Cult in 2017, the project operated entirely as a solo venture. Both Vol. 1 and Vol. 2 showcased Miller’s singular approach to heavy, atmospheric psych-rock. Bringing in a full band nearly ten years later marks a sharp pivot in how the music is constructed and performed.
Fans looking to stream or purchase Vol. 3 can find the physical and digital releases available directly through Silver Current.
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