Galasphere 347 - The Syntax of Things CD
SKU
Chaos 5060164400943
"The Syntax of Things is the sophomore album from Galasphere 347, a band named after a spacecraft from the early sixties puppet series Space Patrol. Despite my advancing years, I don’t recall it at all, but Stephen James Bennett obviously does, as it is he who is the driving force behind the band, along with Ketil Vestrum Einarsen and Mattias Olsson. Their prog credentials are assured; Bennett played keyboards in the legendary experimental outfit Henry Fool alongside Tim Bowness amongst others, while Vestrum Einarsen plays in White Willow, as does Mattias Olsson, drummer extaordinaire who started out in Änglagård. We can take it as read therefore that these guys are no slouches. There are also several key guest appearances who certainly make their presence felt.
Galasphere 347 is dominated musically by the array of keyboards at Stephen Bennett’s disposal. He uses swathes of analogue keys, harking back to the halcyon days of the early prog pioneers, but often uses them in surprising ways, bringing a fresh perspective on some of these instruments. His writing is also distinctive, merging joyous full on prog excursions with segments that have a melancholy air, and meaningful, thought provoking lyrics. Ketil Vestrum Einarsen plays flute like a demon, and co-wrote several of the longer pieces. Olsson underpins the whole soundscape with his superb drumming, combining well with the various bass players on the album, namely John Jowitt (who else?) on three tracks, Pete Smith (Subway) on two, and Jacob Holm-Lupo (White Willow) on one. If that wasn’t enough, Bjørn Riis (Airbag) plays some fabulous lead guitar on three songs, and Bennett’s old friend from Henry Fool, Myke Clifford contributes his trademark wild saxophone on one track...
It’s always a thrill to find a new album which intrigues at first, then delights as new nuances and details show themselves with subsequent listens. This is music from seasoned musicians who know exactly how to make modern music with tried and trusted analogue instruments, written and played from the heart. Recommended. And no, I have no idea why the album cover is a photo of the Nye Bevan pool in Skelmersdale, but don’t let that put you off!!" - The Progressive Aspect
- LabelChaos
- UPC5060164400943