Friday, July 11, 2025

NIRVANA – THE SHOW MUST GO ON: THE COMPLETE COLLECTION To Be Released 12th September on Madfish

12-CD BOX SET FROM THE PIONEERS OF BRITISH PSYCHEDELIA - INCLUDES ALL OF THE BAND’S STUDIO ALBUMS NEWLY REMASTERED, 3 BONUS DISCS OF OUTTAKES, DEMOS AND RARITIES + 90-PAGE HARDBACK BOOK

Nirvana were essentially the duo of Irishman Patrick Campbell-Lyons and Greek Alex Spyropoulos – two immigrants who, following a chance meeting during the summer of 1966, became an integral part of the very fabric that was Swinging London. Crafting a visionary sound that moved beyond the confines of 1960s pop into baroque, psych and proto-Prog territory, Nirvana’s story remains a wonderful tale of artistic ambition.

The Show Must Go On: The Complete Collection is a definitive 12-CD compendium that encompasses the complete studio recordings of Nirvana across 8 studio albums, all with newly remastered audio, as well as 3 additional discs of rare outtakes, demos, and other rarities. Some of the gems located on the bonus discs include the 1971 Vertigo label single ‘The Saddest Day of My Life’ and an alternative version of a 1973 Patrick Campbell-Lyons single ‘Everyone Should Fly A Kite’.

WATCH THE TRAILER FOR THE SHOW MUST GO ON: THE COMPLETE COLLECTION

As well as the 12 CDs, The Show Must Go On: The Complete Collection also includes a beautiful 90-page hardback book that offers an intimate and detailed exploration of Nirvana's history, their creative evolution, and their indelible cultural footprint. Within its pages are interwoven with exclusive interviews featuring founding members Patrick Campbell-Lyons and Alex Spyropoulos, revealing their personal narratives, inspirations, and experiences crafting music during an era of profound experimentation and change. The book is further enriched by previously unseen photographs by Gered Mankowitz and archival materials that vividly capture the essence and atmosphere of the band's creative zenith.

This limited edition, one-time pressing presents the CDs in mini-LP sleeves featuring original artwork, all elegantly contained within a deluxe heavy lift-off lid box.

PRE-ORDER THE SHOW MUST GO ON: THE COMPLETE COLLECTION

DISC 1 – The Story Of Simon Simopath (Stereo)
DISC 2 – The Story Of Simon Simopath (Mono)
DISC 3 – All Of Us (Stereo)
DISC 4 – Dedicated To Markos III
DISC 5 – Local Anaesthetic
DISC 6 – Songs Of Love And Praise
DISC 7 – Orange And Blue
DISC 8 – Me And My Friend
DISC 9 – Secrets
DISC 10 – Bonus Material (1) A collection of rare B-sides, alternate takes, and early versions, including collaborations with Spooky Tooth.
DISC 11 – Bonus Material (2) Demos, instrumentals, and alternate mixes.
DISC 12 – Bonus Material (3) Later-era rarities and unreleased tracks

Full tracklist can be found here.

The Show Must Go On: The Complete Collection will be released on Madfish on 12th September. Pre-order here.


www.madfishmusic.com

Press inquiries: Keith James, Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158 (USA), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Wednesday, July 9, 2025

60TH ANNIVERSARY 2LP EDITION OF THE PRETTY THINGS + LIVE AT THE 100 CLUB SET FOR RELEASE ON MADFISH (1st August 2025)

TRANSPARENT YELLOW & RED VINYL IN WIDE-SPINE PACKAGING

Celebrating six decades since their incendiary arrival, this double LP brings together two distinct yet complementary snapshots of The Pretty Things’ raw power and unfiltered spirit.

Disc one revisits their eponymous 1965 debut - urgent, swaggering and unapologetically loud - a record that sidestepped polish in favour of presence, capturing the band just as they were: sharp-edged, determined, and miles ahead of the curve. From the pounding drive of “Road Runner” to the ragged charm of “13 Chester Street,” this is where their reputation was forged.

The second LP shifts to the heart of London, 2010: The 100 Club. Still charged, still uncompromising, the band tore through a set that balanced reverence with rebellion. Live At The 100 Club is a snapshot of The Pretty Things still locked into the sound and spirit they helped define, with original members Phil May and Dick Taylor leading the charge.

PRE-ORDER THE PRETTY THINGS + LIVE AT THE 100 CLUB

DISC 1
A.1 Roadrunner [03:12]
A.2 Judgement Day [02:46]
A.3 13 Chester Street [02:22]
A.4 Big City [02:01]
A.5 Unknown Blues [03:48]
A.6 Mama, Keep Your Big Mouth Shut [03:03]
B.1 Honey, I Need [01:59]
B.2 Oh Baby Doll [03:01]
B.3 She’s Fine She’s Mine [04:24]
B.4 Don’t Lie To Me [03:53]
B.5 The Moon Is Rising [02:33]
B.6 Pretty Thing [01:38]

DISC 2
C.1 Roadrunner (live at The 100 Club) [03:19]
C.2 Judgement Day (live at The 100 Club) [02:37]
C.3 13 Chester Street (live at The 100 Club) [03:07]
C.4 Big City (live at The 100 Club) [02:34]
C.5 Unknown Blues (live at The 100 Club) [04:30]
C.6 Mama, Keep Your Big Mouth Shut (live at The 100 Club) [03:01]
D.1 Honey, I Need (live at The 100 Club) [02:17]
D.2 Oh Baby Doll (live at The 100 Club) [03:04]
D.3 She’s Fine She’s Mine (live at The 100 Club) [05:20]
D.4 Don’t Lie To Me (live at The 100 Club) [04:15]
D.5 The Moon Is Rising (live at The 100 Club) [03:49]
D.6 Pretty Thing (live at The 100 Club) [02:49]

"Mr. May’s snarling vocals and rebellious persona helped make his band, the Pretty Things, an influential part of the 1960s British scene.” - The New York Times

"The man David Bowie listed as God in his address book stuck two fingers up at rules about music, sex and life itself – and made the most glorious noise doing it” - The Guardian

"May’s yowling vocals, were as ferociously potent as anything recorded during the 1960s British beat boom.” - The Times

"Although the Pretty Things did not achieve the fame of many of their peers in the UK rock scene, they were beloved by musicians, including Aerosmith and, most famously, David Bowie” – Pitchfork

The Pretty Things + Live At The 100 Club (60th Anniversary 2LP) will be released on Madfish on 1st August 2025. Pre-order here.


www.Madfishmusic.com

Press inquiries: Keith James, Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158 (USA), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Friday, July 4, 2025

Prog Rock Review: Jethro Tull - Still Living In The Past (5 CD/BR/BOOK)

Release Date:  July 11, 2025

Label: Chrysalis

Website

Steven Wilson’s remasters of the Jethro Tull catalog have reinvigorated the sound of the music and brought further attention to their entire catalog.

Still Living In The Past is a comprehensive package that includes five CDs, featuring Steven Wilson remixes in 24/96 PCM stereo and DTS 5.1 surround, a flat transfer of the original album, and bonus unreleased original mixes. These unreleased mixes, which offer a fresh perspective on the band's classic tracks, are a treasure trove for Jethro Tull fans. It is also available in a 2 LP set.

 

Additionally, it includes the Live at Carnegie Hall 2025 remix in 24/96 PCM and DTS 5.1 surround, as well as four promotional films. It is all presented in a book format, containing a wealth of information about the band’s recording sessions and live shows. For those interested in the lyrics, they are included.

 

The mixes on CD1 and CD2 are clean and vibrant, showcasing the exceptional performances by the band members. Martin Barre’s guitar, consistently brilliant during his years with the band, also shines on CDs 4 and 5, offering a faithful representation of his talents. Having seen Jethro Tull perform live several times during his time there, I can attest that he was the perfect fit for Ian’s songs.

 

Other highlights are some superb flute playing from Ian, and his voice was powerful. The entire band was a well-oiled machine consistently. John Evans had some moments of his own on the keyboards, notably on CD4 “With You There To Help Me / By Kind Permission Of.” The opener on that CD, “Nothing Is Easy,” was terrific as well. The bottom end was spot on, per usual, and Barre just took off in the live setting.

 

Throughout the live tracks, you will hear many moments when the band had more room to stretch out and improvise, adding an element of excitement and spontaneity. At the height of their success, they were a great live band, capable of cutting loose on extended jams and delivering impressive improvisations.

 

Classic JT, such as “Teacher,” “Living In The Past,” ‘The Witch’s Promise, " and “Bourée,” are always a treat. Then “Dharma For One (Live)” explodes with instrumentation; it's one of the best cuts. And “My God,” where Ian informs the audience on the intro, “for those who use God to lean on, it is not my cup of tea.” People familiar with the band and Ian's beliefs, both religious and political, understand him and can set those aside to enjoy the music. I always have myself. I realize he's an intellectual, and his lyrics can be profound and cerebral, but that's what makes the music so much better; it prompts you to reflect and think more deeply. You can think of it as music and beyond, making for a unique combination that has entertained millions of music lovers worldwide.

 

Still Living In The Past is an extraordinary addition to the remasters series and a must-have for those who want to hear rare demos and live material from the band at its peak, when it was becoming world-renowned.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-Progressive Music Reviews Founder

July 2, 2025

Full tracklisting

5CD/BR

CD ONE:

ORIGINAL MIXES, REMIXES, EDITS & DEMOS 1968-1971

1. A Song For Jeffrey (Remixed at Morgan Studios in April 1971 for the Living In The Past album)

2. Love Story (Remixed at Morgan Studios in April 1971 for the Living In The Past album)

3. A Christmas Song (Remixed at Morgan Studios in April 1971 for the Living In The Past album)

4. Living In The Past (Remixed at Morgan Studios in April 1971 for the Living In The Past album)

5. Driving Song (Remixed at Morgan Studios in April 1971 for the Living In The Past album)

6. Sweet Dream (Remixed at Morgan Studios in October 1971 for the Living In The Past album)

7. Singing All Day (Remixed at Morgan Studios in October 1971 for the Living In The Past album)

8. Teacher (US Album Version) (Remixed at Morgan Studios in October 1971 for the Living In The Past album)

9. Inside (Andy Johns Mix) (Mixed at Olympic Studios on 18th September 1969 by Andy Johns)

10. My God (Early Version) (Mixed at Morgan Studios on 12th April 1970)

11. Just Trying To Be (Mixed at Morgan Studios on 12th April 1970)

12. Wond’ring Aloud Again (Demo)** (Recorded on 2-track at Morgan Studios in June 1970)

13. Wond’ring Again (Mixed at Morgan Studios in June 1970)

14. Lick Your Fingers Clean (1970 Mix) (Mixed at Island Studios on 31st December 1970. Working Mix #4)

15. Locomotive Breath (DJ Single Edit) (Mixed at Island Studios in February 1971, edited for US Radio in March 1971)

16. Life Is A Long Song (Mixed at Sound Techniques Studios in June 1971)

17. Up The ’Pool (Mixed at Sound Techniques Studios in June 1971)

18. From Later (Alternative Master Mix) (Mixed at Sound Techniques Studios in June 1971. Unused master mix)

19. Life Is A Long Song (Alternative Master Mix) (Mixed at Sound Techniques Studios in June 1971. Unused master mix)

**Mono recording

 

CD TWO:

LIVING IN THE PAST (Part One)

The Steven Wilson Stereo Remixes [Sides 1 & 2] except+

1. A Song For Jeffrey (2025 Remix)

2. One For John Gee (2025 AI remix from mono master)

3. Love Story (2025 Remix)

4. A Christmas Song (2018 Remix. Previously released on This Was 50th Anniversary Edition book set)

5. Living In The Past (2016 Remix. Previously released on Stand Up Elevated Edition book set)

6. Driving Song (2016 Remix. Previously released on Stand Up Elevated Edition book set)

7. Bourée (2016 Remix. Previously released on Stand Up Elevated Edition book set)

8. Fat Man (2016 Remix. Previously released on Stand Up Elevated Edition book set)

9. Singing All Day (2013 Remix. Previously released on Benefit Enhanced Edition book set)

10. Sweet Dream (2013 Remix. Previously released on Benefit Enhanced Edition book set)

11. 17 (2013 Remix. Previously released on Benefit Enhanced Edition book set. Edited in 2024)

12. Teacher (UK Single Version) (2025 Remix)

13. The Witch’s Promise+ (Remixed at Morgan Studios in October 1971 for the Living In The Past album)

14. Teacher (US Album Version) (2025 Remix)

15. Inside (2013 Remix. Previously released on Benefit Enhanced Edition book set)

16. Alive And Well And Living In (2013 Remix. Previously released on Benefit Enhanced Edition book set)

17. Just Trying To Be (2011 Remix. Previously released on Aqualung Adapted Edition book set)

+Remastered by Steven Wilson, 2025

 

CD THREE:

LIVING IN THE PAST (Part Two)

The Steven Wilson Stereo Remixes [Sides 3 & 4] except+

1. By Kind Permission Of (Live) (2025 Remix)

2. Dharma For One (Live) (2025 Remix)

3. Wond’ring Aloud (Early Version) (2011 Remix. Released on Aqualung Adapted Edition book set)

4. Wond’ring Again (2011 Remix. Released on Aqualung Adapted Edition book set)

5. Lick Your Fingers Clean (2025 Remix)

6. Up To Me (2011 Remix. Released on Aqualung Adapted Edition book set)

7. Hymn 43 (2011 Remix. Released on Aqualung Adapted Edition book set)

8. Locomotive Breath (2025 Remix)

9. Life Is A Long Song (2011 Remix. Released on Aqualung Adapted Edition book set)

10. Up The ’Pool (2011 Remix. Released on Aqualung Adapted Edition book set)

11. Dr. Bogenbroom+ (Mixed at Sound Techniques Studios in June 1971)

12. From Later+ (Mixed at Sound Techniques Studios in June 1971)

13. Nursie+ (Mixed at Sound Techniques Studios in June 1971)

BONUS TRACK

14. Locomotive Breath (Unplugged Mix) (2025 Remix)

+Remastered by Steven Wilson, 2025

 

CD FOUR:

LIVE AT CARNEGIE HALL, NOVEMBER 4, 1970

Part 1: 2025 Steven Wilson Stereo Remix

(Recorded on 16-track by Fedco Audio Labs at Carnegie Hall, New York, NY

on November 4, 1970. Engineered by Kim King, assisted by Vin Leary and Dave Palmer)

1. Introduction to Nothing Is Easy

2. Nothing Is Easy

3. Introduction to My God

4. My God (including flute solo)

5. Introduction to With You There To Help Me

6. With You There To Help Me / By Kind Permission Of

7. Introduction to A Song For Jeffrey

8. A Song For Jeffrey

9. Introduction to To Cry You A Song

10. To Cry You A Song

 

CD FIVE:

LIVE AT CARNEGIE HALL, NOVEMBER 4, 1970

Part 2: 2025 Steven Wilson Stereo Remix

(Recorded on 16-track by Fedco Audio Labs at Carnegie Hall, New York, NY

on November 4, 1970. Engineered by Kim King, assisted by Vin Leary and Dave Palmer)

1. Introduction to Sossity; You’re A Woman

2. Sossity; You’re A Woman / Reasons For Waiting

3. Introduction to Dharma For One

4. Dharma For One (including drum solo)

5. Introduction to We Used To Know

6. We Used To Know

7. Guitar instrumental

8. For A Thousand Mothers

 

CD1: Tracks 9, 10, 12, 14, 18 & 19, CD2: 1, 2, 3, 11, 12 & 14,

CD3: 1, 2, 5, 8 & 14, CD4 & CD5 Previously Unreleased

 

DISC 6: BLU-RAY AUDIO

Steven Wilson studio remixes in 24/96 PCM stereo

(and Steven Wilson studio remasters in 24/96 PCM stereo)

Steven Wilson studio remixes in DTS 5.1 surround

 

Steven Wilson remixes [sides 1 & 2]

Steven Wilson remixes [sides 3 & 4]

 

Flat stereo 24/96 transfer of original

Living in the Past studio album reels (UK & US versions combined)

 

Flat stereo 24/96 transfer of bonus unreleased original mixes

 

Live Carnegie Hall 1970, 2025 remix in 24/96 PCM stereo

Steven Wilson Live Carnegie Hall 1970, 2025 remix in DTS 5.1 surround

 

BLU-RAY AUDIO/VIDEO

The Witch’s Promise (March 1970 Promo Film)

Teacher (UK Single Version, March 1970 Promo Film)

Teacher (US Album Version, March 1970 Promo Film)

Life Is A Long Song (September 1971 Promo Film)

 

BD RUNNING TIME: Approx 355 minutes. REGIONS: A, B & C. VIDEO: BD50 - Aspect Ratio: 1080i59.94 / 1080p23.976

AUDIO: 96/24 PCM Stereo and DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1. EXEMPT FROM CLASSIFICATION

 

Tuesday, June 24, 2025

The Moody Blues’ John Lodge ‘Singer in a Rock and Roll Band’ – Dates Announced for December 2025!

Singer in a Rock and Roll Band’ Tour – Featuring Moody Blues Songs from the Classic Albums is heading to California, Arizona, Texas and Oklahoma!

John Lodge, legendary bass player, songwriter and vocalist of The Moody Blues, and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, has announced more dates for his electrifying new show titled ‘Singer in a Rock and Roll Band’! Dates are already on sale for the North East and Midwest, and now dates have been announced for California, Arizona, Texas and Oklahoma. This will be the first time John has taken his show to many of these venues!

Following the phenomenal success of his ‘Days of Future Passed’ show over the last couple of years, John wanted to now go back to basics and bring a true Moody Blues show to the fans. What are the songs that he loved performing in the Moody Blues, and how could he recreate the sound and the feel of one of these special concerts. Thanks to the incredible musicianship of his band, and his experience of performing these songs over 50 years, John will perform these classic songs true to the original but with an extra dash of magic, evoking joy and nostalgia in equal measure.

It may no longer be possible to go to a ‘Moody Blues’ show, but as Gary Spiller said in a recent review “Check the dictionary entry for ‘timeless’ and evenings like this are right there!”

When John wrote the hit single ‘Singer’ in 1972 it was because people were looking to him to change the world, and his reply was he’s just a singer in a rock and roll band! Despite time marching on, that is still who is he today, and John’s shows will take you on a Moody Blues journey through the hits and deep cuts of this magical catalogue, together with stories and memories of this time.

This incredible new show feature songs from ‘the core seven albums’ including ‘Days of Future Passed’, Seventh Sojourn, and more, plus ‘Octave’ and the triple platinum selling album ‘Long Distance Voyager’.  It will bring together some of the captivating moments of his ‘Days of Future Passed’ show, John’s hits with the Moodies, and, of course, tributes to all his bandmates. This truly will be a show of Moodies Magic and ‘a trip worth taking and remembering’! (Tony Violanti)

Together with Jon Davison of YES and his 10,000 Light Years Band, John will lovingly recreate ‘I’m Just a Singer (in a Rock and Roll Band)’, ‘Nights in White Satin’, ‘Ride my See-Saw’, ‘Gemini Dream’, ‘Tuesday Afternoon’, ‘The Voice’, ‘Steppin’ in Slide Zone’, ‘Isn’t Life Strange’ and much more. Electrifying video and lights will complete this incredible evening as the years roll back…

The December dates kick off on December 4th at Cerritos PAC, and end in Austin on December 14.  This will be John’s first solo shows in Austin and Oklahoma City, and he’s delighted to be able to continue to bring these shows to new audiences!

Limited VIP merch packages will also be available, go to: https://www.johnlodge.com/tour.


Photo by Dana Grubb

Following a stroke at the end of 2023, John has gone from strength to strength, driven by his love for this music, and his deeply held desire to ‘keep the Moody Blues music alive’. The critically acclaimed shows are testament to his passion and commitment, and as John says, his hope is that people leave with a little bit of joy around them.

“I’m delighted that we are announcing these dates for December - we’ve been having a blast putting the new show together, and I am so looking forward to the July tour starting next month, and being able to continue it into December. As many of you know California has always had a special place in my heart, and we love performing at Danny Zelisko’s venues in Arizona, plus new venues in Austin and Oklahoma City.

I am a ‘singer in a rock and roll band’, and it continues to fill me with joy to perform for my fans and share this music with them… music that is the soundtrack to my life, and to many others too…”

Check out the tour video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l_32O8687sw

This incredible new show will also be in support of John’s new EP ‘Love Conquers All’ out now. Signed copies are also available including limited edition vinyl.

For USA (including the limited edition 180g violet vinyl, handsigned by John): https://shop.johnlodge.com

For UK (including the limited edition 180g blue vinyl with a special handsigned insert): https://burningshed.com/store/john-lodge_store

Check out the video for ‘Whispering Angels’ here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XErh5-eeoIU

If you love The Moody Blues music, then you really need to checkout John live.  He and the band put on a great show!’

John Lodge is bass guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter for the iconic Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame 2018 inductees, The Moody Blues. Songwriter of such mega Moody Blues hits from “Ride My See-Saw,” to “I’m Just A Singer (In A Rock and Roll Band),” “Isn’t Life Strange” and many more.  Lodge has been performing and recording with The Moody Blues for more than five decades, selling in excess of 70 million albums, as well as releasing his three solo albums ‘Natural Avenue’,’10,000 Light Years Ago’ and ‘B Yond’, plus his new EP ‘Love Conquers All’.  Lodge has been voted one of the “10 most influential bass players on the planet,” and has been the recipient of many awards, including ASCAP (American Society of Composers and Publishers), an Ivor Novello Award, a Lifetime Achievement Award from Prog Magazine, to name just a few.

USA Dates

Tickets for most of the new shows go on sale on Friday June 27th at 10am, with Celebrity Theatre and Rialto Theatre on sale date TBC.

JUST ANNOUNCED - DECEMBER 2025 Dates
Dec 4 Cerritos PAC, Cerritos, CA,
Dec 6 Uptown Theatre, Napa, CA
Dec 7 Magnolia PAC, San Diego, CA
Dec 9 Celebrity Theater, Phoenix, AZ
Dec 11 Rialto Theatre, Tucson, AZ
Dec 13 Tower Theatre, Oklahoma City, OK
Dec 14 Paramount Theatre, Austin, TX

JULY / AUGUST 2025 DATES – ON SALE NOW!
July 19 The Vogel, Red Bank, NJ
July 20 Newton Theatre, Newton, NJ
July 23 Scottish Rite Auditorium, Collingswood, NJ
July 24 Wind Creek Casino, Bethlehem, PA
July 26 Lynn Auditorium, Lynn, MA
July 27 Infinity Hall, Hartford, CT
July 29 Flying Monkey, Plymouth, NH
July 30 JPT Film & Event Center, Newport, RI
Aug 1 MCL Pavilion, Newport, KY
Aug 2 Agora, Cleveland, OH
Aug 6 Arcada Theatre, St. Charles, IL
Aug 7 Des Plaines Theater, Des Plaines, IL

All dates at www.johnlodge.com/tour

For further information:
https://www.johnlodge.com/
https://www.facebook.com/johnlodgemusic/
https://twitter.com/johnlodgemusic
https://www.instagram.com/johnlodgemusic/
https://www.youtube.com/c/johnlodgemusic

Press inquiries: Keith James, Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158 (USA), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Monday, June 23, 2025

Iona’s Dave Bainbridge To Release 5th Solo Album “On the Edge (of what could be)” On July 18

Dave Bainbridge’s 5th solo album ‘On the Edge (of what could be)’ is perhaps his most ambitious yet. Bringing together all the elements that have characterised his music since he co-founded the band Iona, ‘On the Edge’ brings 83 minutes of new atmospheric, spiritual and powerful music to the listener that defies genre (a bold claim perhaps, but how else do you describe music that truly merges folk, rock, progressive, jazz and modern classical elements with vocals in both Scottish and Irish Gaelic as well as English?

‘On the Edge (of what could be)’ features a stellar cast of musicians including world renowned drum master Simon Phillips (Jeff Beck, Gary Moore, Toto, The Who, Mike Oldfield, Protocol, Hiromi and many more), Uilleann pipes and whistle maestro Troy Donockley (solo artist, Nightwish, Iona, Auri, The Enid, Midge Ure, Maddy Prior etc), Sally Minnear (Lord of the Dance, Pendragon, Celestial Fire etc), Iain Hornal (solo artist, Jeff Lynne’s ELO, 10CC etc), Randy McStine (solo artist, Steven Wilson, Porcupine Tree), Ebony Buckle (solo artist, Solstice), Jon Poole (Cardiacs, The Wildhearts, Lifesigns), David Fitzgerald (Iona co-founder), Frank van Essen (Iona, Martin Garrix, Within Temptation, Auri, Barbara Dickson etc), Rachel Walker (renowned singer of Scottish Gaelic folk music) and more.

Exploring themes such as the thin veil between this earthly life and the heavenly, mysterious stories of ancient Celtic saints, the wonder and glory of the natural world, Dave cleverly interweaves these with present day concerns such as climate change and deep societal divisions. However instead of pointing fingers, ‘On the Edge’ encapsulates a deep sense of the sacred and of hope. The hope of what could be in a world of turmoil and uncertainty. Possibly more now than at any point in history, the world needs the artistic community to bring us together and to show us, through great art, just how beautiful and precious this world is, and how much better the way of unity and of love and respect is.  

With the combination of this cast of uniquely talented musicians and Dave’s trademark, soaring guitar lines, expressive keyboards and evocative compositions, here we have a glimpse of what could be, in a world that is truly on the edge.

Watch the official album promo: https://youtu.be/JMiFXkID9go?si=M876WSN4PpKiZLJ5

Track list:

CD1

1.For Evermore
2.On the Slopes of Sliabh Mis
3.Colour of Time
4.That they may be One
5.On the Edge (of what could be)
6.The Whispering of the Landscape
7.Hill of the Angels

CD2

1.Farther Up and Farther In
2.Reilig Òdhrain  
3.Beyond the Plains of Earth and Time
4.Fall Away
5.When All will be Bright

On the Edge (of what could be) is available on OPEN SKY RECORDS / GONZO MULTIMEDIA as a 2CD double album and soon as a double vinyl album with a triple gatefold sleeve and digital download and stream. www.davebainbridgemusic.com

To purchase: https://www.musicglue.com/iona/products/dave-bainbridge-on-the-edge-of-what-could-be

For more information:
www.davebainbridgemusic.com
www.patreon.com/davebainbridge
https://www.facebook.com/dave.bainbridge1
https://www.facebook.com/DaveBainbridgeMusic/
https://www.youtube.com/@davebainbridge902

Press inquiries: Keith James, Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158 (USA), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Sunday, June 22, 2025

Instrumental Ambient Progressive Rock Review: Bioscope (Steve Rothery and Thorsten Quaeschning) - Gento

Release Date:  August 22, 2025

Label: earMUSIC

Website

Bioscope comes from the Greek bios (life) and skopeein (to look). Before cinema, it meant "a view or survey of life." This is the new project of Steve Rothery (Marillion) and Thorsten Quaeschning (Tangerine Dream) titled Gento.

If you are familiar with the artists, you may be speculating about what the song will sound like before you hear it. It is instrumental, ambient progressive music from start to finish, albeit with a few vocals. It certainly conforms to the instrumental heading.

 

This may be quite an auditory journey if you are passionate about music without words. In the same instance, you may be open to exploring something entirely different, which is also good.

 

Rothery, being a keyboard player, made the choice well. Quaeschning performs synthesizers, vocals, guitar, and drums on the recording. The guitar parts give it the progressive rock elements, so it's not too far out on the ambient side.

 

Every track segues into the next, making it sound like a vast, ever-changing composition with five proper tracks. Two contain three parts, one contains two parts, and the whole comprises 10 parts.

 

One way to briefly explain what you hear is atmospheric ambient layers of keys and synths with additional key guitar parts and very few vocals. It is primarily and purposefully instrumental to focus on the dual talents of these two gentlemen.

 

It is not even close to being Marillion, but it can mirror what Tangerine Dream sounds like in the more ambient textured layers. Layers is the descriptive word here; many parts meshed into each other. It is an incredible challenge to listen to what is going on. And I say that in the most positive and supportive way for this amazing musical project.

 

You will hear spacey parts and changing tempos, and in some instances, I could imagine the music being used in a film or documentary. The epic sound, tempo, and rhythm shifts make this a listen you will be glued to until it's over.

 

The most challenging aspect of this type of music is keeping a listener interested and energized with anticipation. Remember, this is not background music; these are bona fide compositions of musical excellence.

 

While Bioscope has not broken new ground with Gento, it is a giant leap for the artist to step out of the familiarity of their main bandmates and comfort zones.

 

Steve Rothery and Thorsten Quaeschning have created a marvelous musical journey with Gento. Fans of their respective bands will enjoy this extensive collection of compositions. This is as progressive as it gets for such a project outside the realm where they usually reside.


Keith “MuziMan” Hannaleck- Progressive Music Reviews Reviews Founder

June 19, 2025

Tracks:

1. Vanishing Point (Pt. 1, 2 & 3)

2. Gentō

3. Kinetoscope (Pt. 1 & 2)

4. Bioscope (Pt. 1, 2 & 3)

5. Kaleidoscope