The absence of Temples' Volcano album would reverberate through multiple aspects of the band's trajectory and the broader indie psych-rock landscape. Its impact, while perhaps not immediately earth-shattering, would have been felt cumulatively. Let's explore some potential consequences:

1. Altered Band Trajectory: Volcano, released in 2014, marked a significant step in Temples' career. Its unique blend of psychedelic rock, infused with elements of krautrock and 60s pop, established their distinct sound. Without it, their musical direction might have evolved differently. Perhaps they would have leaned more heavily into one specific influence, resulting in a less eclectic and possibly less successful sound. They might have experienced a slower climb to recognition, or potentially even fragmented as a band due to internal creative disagreements that Volcano's success helped to unify. The creative energy channeled into Volcano could have been dispersed, leading to a less cohesive body of work in subsequent albums.

2. Different Sound and Style: The album's distinctive production, James Bagshaw's songwriting, and the overall aesthetic established a template that subsequent albums built upon. Without Volcano, the evolution of their sound wouldn't have followed the same path. Their later work might lack the signature psychedelic textures and the specific blend of retro and modern influences that define their discography. Imagine a Temples without the swirling synths, the driving basslines, and the hypnotic rhythms – a significantly altered sonic identity.

3. Reduced Critical and Commercial Success: Volcano garnered considerable critical acclaim and established a dedicated fanbase. Reviews praised its originality and psychedelic richness, helping to catapult the band into the indie music spotlight. The absence of this breakthrough album would have almost certainly limited their commercial success and recognition. Without the platform provided by Volcano, subsequent albums might have struggled to gain traction, potentially limiting their touring opportunities and wider audience reach.

4. Impact on the Indie Psych-Rock Scene: Volcano contributed to a broader revival of interest in psychedelic rock during the 2010s. Its unique sound, combined with the band's aesthetic, influenced other artists and contributed to the overall landscape of indie psych-rock. Without Volcano, this impact would have been lessened. Other bands might have taken a different path, potentially hindering the overall evolution and popularity of the genre. The ripple effect on other musicians, inspired by Temples' sound and success, would be significantly diminished.

5. Alternative Creative Outlets: The creative energy invested in Volcano might have been channeled into other projects. The band members might have pursued solo careers, collaborated on other musical projects, or focused on entirely different creative avenues. This would have led to a completely different body of work across various mediums, impacting not only the music world but possibly also other creative industries.

In conclusion, the absence of Volcano would have created a butterfly effect, fundamentally altering Temples' career, their sound, and even the trajectory of the indie psych-rock genre. While it's impossible to definitively predict what might have happened, it's clear that the album played a pivotal role in shaping the band's legacy and influencing the music scene. The hypothetical reality without Volcano presents a fascinating ‘what if’ scenario, highlighting the significant impact of a single album on a band's trajectory and its cultural influence.