"The Clock Strikes 12:34: Cinema Stereo’s Defining Debut"
(Artist Update)
Written by: Ginny Gaines
For Cinema Stereo, October 2, 2026, marked the beginning of a new chapter. The Nashville-based rock trio officially released its debut full-length album, 12:34, introducing listeners to a band that isn't interested in staying inside one musical box. Across 12 songs, Cinema Stereo mix classic rock, alternative rock, power-pop, new wave and plenty of guitar-driven energy. The band is made up of Ian Rayha on vocals, bass, guitar and keyboards, Sebastian Borysek on lead guitar, and Jeffrey Lageveen on drums. While the lineup is small, the sound they create is anything but. 12:34 gives the band a chance to show that three musicians can create something that feels much bigger.
Cinema Stereo's story began in Florida before the members eventually made their way to Nashville. That move put them in the middle of one of America's best-known music cities, but the group didn't simply follow the most familiar path. Instead, they developed a sound built around the rock music they grew up loving while adding their own modern touches. You can hear pieces of bands and styles from different generations throughout 12:34. There are big guitar moments, catchy choruses, keyboards, harmonies and atmospheric sections that keep the album moving. The band's influences include classic acts such as Queen, Cheap Trick, Aerosmith and The Police, but Cinema Stereo use those influences as building blocks rather than simply trying to sound like them.
The album was produced and mixed by Nashville producer Paul Moak and recorded at The Smoakstack. The studio sessions allowed the band to experiment with the songs instead of simply recording them exactly as they were originally written. That freedom helped give 12:34 its variety. The record begins with “Flood,” a strong rock opener, and moves through songs such as “Over the Edge,” “Now We Feel Special,” “A Moment of Feeling Alone” and “Expectations.” The short title track, “12:34,” lasts only 1 minute and 23 seconds, but it plays an important role in the album's overall idea. The songs deal with things most people can understand, growing up, relationships, chasing dreams, doubt, loneliness, hope and those moments in life when everything seems to come together.
As the album continues, Cinema Stereo show that they aren't afraid to change direction. “Ride to the Sun” brings a brighter and more melodic feel, while “Flowers” and “Lean On You” offer more emotional moments. “All I Want” brings in some new-wave and reggae-flavored touches, giving the record another change of pace. Then comes “Tears,” a short instrumental piece that helps set up the album's closing track, “Proxima.” At five and a half minutes, “Proxima” is the longest song on the record and gives the band room to stretch out. The guitars become more prominent while keyboards and atmospheric sounds help create a bigger, darker finish.
The title 12:34 fits the album's bigger message because so much of the record is about time, change and the moments that shape our lives. Rather than making a collection of songs that all sound the same, Cinema Stereo created an album that moves around while still keeping a recognizable rock foundation. Some songs are loud and energetic, others are more reflective, and several combine the two. That variety has already caught the attention of independent music reviewers, who have praised the band's confidence and willingness to experiment on its first full-length release. For a debut album, Cinema Stereo sound like a band that already knows what it wants to explore.
Now the real test begins, taking 12:34 out of the studio and onto the stage. Cinema Stereo are scheduled to begin a European and UK headline tour on October 15, just days after the album's release. The tour will take the band through Belgium, Germany, France, Spain, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom, including a December 5 performance at London's O2 Academy 2. After spending years developing their sound, Cinema Stereo finally have their first full album in the hands of listeners. 12:34 isn't presented as the final destination; it's the starting point. And if this first chapter is any indication, Cinema Stereo may have plenty more musical territory to explore.
Thank you for reading this update on Cinema Stereo new album. In closing, please know, Soundwave Music Media will be here and I will always do my best to bring you any updates as they emerge. Please consider supporting our Soundwave Foundation with a donation! Rock On! Until next time...🤘
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