Of course Elrond was talking about the one ring, but equally so, he could have been recommending the band with almost the same name’s (give or take an apostrophe) new album titled, “Off the Radar.” If you’re not familiar with this Swedish group then you’re in for a very pleasant surprise. Pigeon-hole Isildurs Bane at your peril.

There are so many layers to this to ponder on and encompass; so many ‘Colours Not Found In Nature’ as was aptly titled from their previous album with Steve Hogarth onboard.  Each track deserved of your attention with so many talented musicians finding their place within to infuse a delicious pattern of sound joined or blended, but never dulled or confusing, even though sometimes you feel there is madness to their avant garde method, no borders left unturned, they have created an orchestral fusion of shifting melody which works wonderfully.

It all depends which direction you follow, and you’d be hard pressed finding a chorus on any of the six listings including a live bonus classically inspired track titled ‘Uvertyr / Open (Live 2016)’ at the end, but that is the beauty and charm of this band who are now well into their 41^st year of “changes in personnel, straying far from their symphonic rock origins to become a rock-based chamber ensemble.” Or so they represent themselves claiming their very own niche in Prog along paths the likes of Frank Zappa or perhaps a jazz-inspired Gong have walked. It’s a sound they’ve reinforced over the years, and I have to admit I’ve only heard a couple of their albums in the past including the ever haunting ‘The Voyage – A Trip to Elsewhere’ released in 1992. just listen to the oh so brief ninth track ‘Picassiette – Third Walk’ and you’ll know where I’m coming from.

So here is a run down of the ensemble for this new album: Continue reading ““Behold Isildur’s Bane!”” →

I’m not sure that I’m the most non-proggy of the many esteemed Progarchist contributors, but I do tend to run a bit hot-and-cold when it comes to my prog listening. So much so, I am almost hesitant to offer up my Favorite Prog of 2017 (forthcoming!), but since it contains the all-important adjective “favorite,” I think I’m on safe ground. As usual, most of my listening this past year was in the realm of jazz and other instrumental music, but that list is also forthcoming. Between those two wide, general genres is my current list, which I think has a couple of interesting twists and turns. Here then are my Favorite Pop/Rock albums that cannot, in good conscience, be called “prog”.

• Top of the Glorious, Musical Heap: “Grace Street” by Big Wreck. Ian Thornley and Company continue to impress and dazzle in big ways, producing a sprawling but incredibly masterful collection of songs that are, as I wrote in my February review, notable for being “defiant” and “hopeful” in equal measure, reflecting the aftermath of Thornley’s divorce. This album stood out to me because, despite having nearly a full year to marinate in its musical flavors, it never became tiring or dull; on the contrary, I continue to listen to it on a regular basis. The songs are varied but cohesive; the playing is stellar; the vocals are unreal; the guitar solos are stunning. And, despite not being prog, even the most die-hard progarchist will nod in admiration at extended, complex cuts such as “A Speedy Recovery” and the instrumental “Skybunk Marché”. Recommended without reservation.

• “Live at the OT Arena/B-Sides and Rarities” by Alter Bridge. This 3-CD set is a gift that keeps on giving, especially for the price. The third disc (b-sides, rarities) is so good, I’ve only listened to the two live discs a few times. In fact, I think it easily holds its own among the many exceptional Alter Bridge albums; the first three songs—”Breathe,” “Cruel Sun,” and “Solace”—are astonishing examples of slow-burn brilliance, with echoes of Soundgarden and Chris Cornell, both musically and lyrically. The guitar is, of course, stellar, and Myles Kennedy demonstrates again his broad range, remarkable control, and emotional vibrancy. And speaking of Kennedy, his much anticipated and long awaited solo album “Year of the Tiger” is being released on March 8, 2018; here’s the title cut: Continue reading “My Favorite Non-Prog Pop/Rock of 2017” →