Key Takeaways
| New Evolution: Astrology Now transitions to a heavier four-piece lineup. |
| Album Release: The third LP, Lazervisionz, launches September 2026. |
| Iconic Influence: Band name derived from the film Apocalypse Now. |
| Local Roots: Vinyl release show scheduled for September 25 at Brillobox. |
Astrology Now is redefining the soundscape of the Pittsburgh local music scene as they prepare for the release of their third studio album, Lazervisionz, in September 2026. By shifting from a five-piece unit to a lean, aggressive four-piece, the band has successfully cranked up their fuzz-drenched psychedelic rock volume. If you have been following the evolution of the Steel City’s independent sound, this transition marks a pivotal moment for a group known for blending melodic sensibilities with heavy, Sabbath-inspired riffs.
The band, led by vocalist and guitarist Greg Mastrean, has navigated significant personnel changes while maintaining their distinct sonic signature. Their journey from a bedroom recording project to a polished rock force illustrates the resilience of the local scene. As Mastrean notes, the decision to pivot toward humbucking pickups allowed them to maintain their massive stage presence despite losing a third guitar player, proving that creative adaptation is at the heart of their artistic growth.
The Evolution of Astrology Now
When you listen to the upcoming record, the influence of classic heavy rock is undeniable. Mastrean attributes the shift in tone directly to his adoption of the Gibson SG, a legendary instrument favored by metal icons for its thick, driving power chords. This shift isn’t just about gear; it is a conscious effort to keep their live performance as impactful as their recorded work. For fans of Pittsburgh independent music, this new era promises a tighter, more deliberate focus on the band’s psychedelic roots.
The title track, Lazervisionz, serves as a bridge between the group’s melodic past and their heavier future. Mastrean admits that while the title is a playful nod to Stevie Wonder’s Innervisions, the music occupies a completely different atmospheric space. You can expect a sonic experience that feels like an out-of-body transition, keeping true to the band’s commitment to psychedelic exploration. 
Growth within the band has been steady and collaborative. Bassist Nate Campisi, who operates out of the renowned Mr. Smalls Recording Studio, has been instrumental in producing the band’s catalog since their inception. This partnership has allowed the group to retain full control over their aesthetic, ensuring that every release feels authentic to their original vision. From their early days in 2016 to the present, the band has steadily built a cult following in the Bloomfield neighborhood and beyond.
Band Stats and Musical Milestones
| Release | Year | Format |
|---|---|---|
| Semi-Hollow Review | 2018 | LP |
| Knife EP | 2019 | EP |
| See God | 2022 | LP |
| Lazervisionz | 2026 | LP |
The Pittsburgh Music Connection
Beyond the gear and the studio time, the band thrives on the camaraderie found within the Pittsburgh art community. Mastrean recounts a surreal experience sharing a bill with the Zam-rock legends W.I.T.C.H., where he encountered Dutch psychedelic musician Jacco Gardner. Such moments highlight the interconnectedness of global underground psychedelic scenes and their roots in cities like Pittsburgh.
For those looking to explore similar sounds, the band suggests keeping an eye on contemporaries like Century III, Lillie Gazer, and Sunny Daze & the Weathermen. These groups represent a diverse array of talent currently bubbling up in the local scene. 
The culture of support in venues like Brillobox remains a cornerstone for these bands, offering a stage for experimentation and local growth.
The band’s story began with a desire to turn solo cassette demos into a full rock ensemble, an endeavor that required persistence and creative networking. Today, their legacy includes a collection of singles like Floating Eye and Atomic Weakness, each showcasing a different facet of their heavy, psych-leaning sound. They have remained dedicated to the craft of independent music, often citing inspirations ranging from The Velvet Underground to Bob Dylan.
People Also Ask
When is the Astrology Now vinyl release show?
The vinyl release show for the album Lazervisionz is scheduled to take place on September 25, 2026, at the Brillobox venue in the Bloomfield neighborhood of Pittsburgh.
Who are the current members of Astrology Now?
The band currently consists of Greg Mastrean on vocals, guitar, and synths, Nate Campisi on bass, Matt Turcsanyi on guitar and vocals, and Gordy Brash on drums and percussion.
What influenced the band name Astrology Now?
The band’s name is a direct homage to the classic film Apocalypse Now, chosen by Greg Mastrean because it captured the psychedelic spirit and rhythm of the band’s music.
How has the sound of Astrology Now changed on their third album?
The band has shifted toward a heavier sound with more fuzz and humbucker-driven power chords, consciously adapting their arrangements after transitioning from a five-piece to a four-piece group.
Final Thoughts on the Pittsburgh Scene
As Astrology Now continues to carve out their niche, their commitment to volume, melody, and local community stands as a testament to the health of the Pittsburgh music scene. Whether you are catching them at a local club or streaming their latest heavy jams, the band serves as a gateway to the broader, vibrant world of modern psychedelic rock. Keep checking Bandcamp and Instagram for updates as this Pittsburgh staple continues to grow their footprint in 2026.
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