MADFISH PROUDLY PRESENTS CARAVAN – THE SHOWS OF OURS…LIVE (22nd August)

A 10LP ARCHIVAL BOXSET OF FIRST-TIME TO VINYL CARAVAN PERFORMANCES

INCLUDES 4 PREVIOUSLY UNRELEASED CONCERT RECORDINGS PLUS 60-PAGE COLLECTOR’S BOOK WITH PHOTOGRAPHS, EPHEMERA, AND FIRST-HAND BAND REFLECTIONS

Madfish are proud to present the new 10LP boxset from progressive rock pioneers Caravan. Titled The Shows Of Ours…Live, the new set includes 10LP’s of iconic Caravan performances from the band’s live peak with 4 previously unreleased concerts – Keele University 1976, Bobino 1980, Diss 1998 and Wavendon 2001. Completing the set is a beautiful 60-page collector’s book with previously unseen photographs and contributions from the band.

WATCH THE TRAILER FOR THE SHOWS OF OURS…LIVE

A rare and fascinating window into Caravan’s onstage journey, The Shows of Ours…Live traces the band’s evolution across four decades of musical exploration, quiet majesty and cult superstardom.

PRE-ORDER CARAVAN THE SHOWS OF OURS…LIVE (22^nd August)

LP BREAKDOWN:
1 - Keele University 1976
2/3 - Bobino, Paris 1980
4/5 - Old Buckenham High School 1990
6/7/8 - Park Hotel, Diss 1998
9/10 - Stables Theatre, Wavendon 2001

Among the many gems is a standout performance from Keele University, now available for fans to enjoy for the very first time. Unearthed from the personal tapes of keyboardist Jan Schelhaas, Keele University 1976 captures the band in elegant transition - fluid, playful, and at ease in their own skin.

There’s also the long-rumoured 1980 concert at Bobino, Paris - finally rescued from the world of unofficial bootlegs and presented here in fully remastered form. With crisp fidelity and room to breathe, it reveals a line-up locked in and stretching out, riding the sweet spot between structure and spontaneity.

The journey continues into later years with a 1990 recording from Old Buckenham High School - a performance once tucked away on a boxset-only CD release, now restored and reintroduced on vinyl for the first time in all its charm.

Caravan by Barry Plumber

From swirling organ solos to playful lyrical turns, every track hums with the unmistakable spirit of a scene that was always more than just music - it was a movement. Whether you're a longtime devotee or a curious newcomer, this is your invitation to step into the velvet-draped, tea-scented haze of a bygone era.

Compiled with the full blessing and input of the band and mastered by Pete Reynolds of Reynolds Mastering, The Shows of Ours… Live is part time capsule, part revelation - a portrait of Caravan as a live band and a tribute to their subtle but lasting mark on progressive music history.

The Shows Of Ours…Live will be released on Madfish on 22^nd August.

Pre-order now here.

Follow Caravan:

https://www.facebook.com/OfficialCaravan

https://twitter.com/officialcaravan

https://www.youtube.com/user/officialcaravan

https://www.instagram.com/caravancanterburyband/

For hi-res images see: https://www.madfishmusic.com/media/caravan/

www.madfishmusic.com

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

exo-X-xeno To Release Sonic ‘Masterpiece’ Album, “Luminous Voyage,” Featuring Craig Maher, Billy Sherwood, Jay Schellen and Legendary Keyboardist Patrick Moraz

Artwork © 2025 Craig Maher. All rights reserved.

For Immediate Release

exo-X-xeno To Release Sonic ‘Masterpiece’ Album, “Luminous Voyage,” Featuring Craig Maher, Billy Sherwood, Jay Schellen and Legendary Keyboardist Patrick Moraz

Worldwide release on June 19, 2025

On June 19, 2025, progressive rock project exo-X-xeno launches its long-awaited LP album release into the stratosphere, called “Luminous Voyage.” This epic music adventure features Billy Sherwood, Jay Schellen and Patrick Moraz. The concept album is led by composer, vocalist and guitarist Craig Maher, founder of exo-X-xeno, who also designed the cover artwork.

exo-X-xeno is a musical constellation consisting of founder Maher, bassist and backing vocalist Billy Sherwood (Yes, Toto and Conspiracy with Chris Squire), drummer Jay Schellen (Hurricane, Yes and Asia) and legendary keyboardist Patrick Moraz (Refugee, Yes and The Moody Blues).

The Maher/Sherwood/Schellen/Moraz lineup has already successfully launched as a remarkable collaborative prog rock project with two singles behind them, and “Luminous Voyage” is the phenomenal culmination of musical material. “Craig has a musicality about him that is inspiring and among the many reasons I enjoy working with him,” Sherwood said. “He has a creativity in his writing, he’s not afraid to push the envelope. That’s something I’ve always tried to do as well, and so we had an instant bond when it came to working together.”

Maher’s guitar architecture invokes a polychromatic tapestry of celestial rock sounds, and he invites listeners to “think and feel on a deeper level, to elevate and go beyond the norms of where they wish to go, to paint life’s experiences into each song’s narrative.”

“The record is filled with melody and interesting lyrics that transport the listener to another place,” Sherwood said. “Craig’s guitar chops are off-the-chain good, the guy can play anything. That said, he doesn’t just shred for shred’s sake, rather he comes from a place of melody in his playing. The guitar tones he goes for always fit the song perfectly and enhances it. Craig is a gifted writer and musician, plus he sings like a bird.”

Calling the album a “masterpiece” and “absolutely brilliant,” Moraz said, “The more we listen to it, the more discoveries and sonic explorations there are! Unbelievable!”

About exo-X-xeno

The exo-X-xeno group, which launched at the beginning of 2021, pushes the prog rock boundaries of space and time with expansive, melodious vocals and sonic instrumental layering—all accomplished with a star-studded roster of musical greats.

Founded by composer, vocalist and guitarist Craig Maher, exo-X-xeno is a musical constellation consisting of bassist and backing vocalist Billy Sherwood (Yes, Toto and Conspiracy with Chris Squire), drummer Jay Schellen (Hurricane, Yes and Asia), and legendary keyboardist Patrick Moraz (Refugee, Yes and The Moody Blues).

exo-X-xeno’s first single, “Onward, Love,” successfully debuted on January 15, 2021, to an enthusiastic global prog rock audience. The group’s second single, “Reaching for Beyond,” followed on July 15, 2021, to further high acclaim. Both singles have been aired by various online radio stations worldwide and have received high praise from the prog rock community.

About Craig Maher, Founder of exo-X-xeno

Craig Maher’s musical journey as a composer, guitarist, vocalist, and recording and visual artist is sprinkled with celestial eclecticism. Throughout his 30 years of playing, studying and composing guitar-based music, he released two records, Through the Garden of Temptation, and Propel (2009). He composed the music score for the film Brooklyn Lobster, with Danny Aiello and Jane Curtin (2005). Maher has performed in a plethora of venues spanning from the U.S. to Europe and is looking forward to touring with exo-X-xeno in the near future.

“Craig’s exceptional talent for composing, authoring, guitar playing and singing are at the highest level of an amazing creativity,” says Moraz.

Stay tuned for the vinyl version (two cover art choices, "Flight" and "Infinity") of exo-X-xeno’s “Luminous Voyage,” mastered by Maor Appelbaum and Ryan Sillifant, Los Angeles, vinyl mastered by Eric Boulanger at The Bakery, Los Angeles, and pressed at Citizen Vinyl, Asheville, NC. “Luminous Voyage” is available for digital download starting on June 19 at the official exo-store webpage and on Bandcamp.

exo-X-xeno website store:  https://exo-x-xeno.com/store

Bandcamp Page:  https://exo-x-xeno.bandcamp.com

FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/exoXxeno

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/exoXxeno

Press inquiries: exo.x.xeno@gmail.com

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

KOMARA Returns with Haunting New Album KOMARA II

Featuring Pat Mastelotto, David Kollar, Paolo Raineri – With Artwork by Tool’s Adam Jones

The genre-defying trio KOMARA returns with KOMARA II, a powerful and immersive new release that pushes sonic boundaries and challenges musical convention. Featuring King Crimson drummer Pat Mastelotto, Slovakian avant-garde guitarist David Kollar, and visionary Italian trumpeter Paolo Raineri, the trio weaves ambient textures, industrial grit, and jazz-infused improvisation into a dark, cinematic soundscape.

Building on the bold spirit of their acclaimed debut, KOMARA II welcomes special guests Arve Henriksen (trumpet on “Komarantino”), Bill Munyon (voice on “Not Our Way”), and Deborah Carter Mastelotto (voice on “Relocating Children” and “Burning Man”), adding further depth to the album’s rich and experimental palette. Once again, the visual aesthetic is elevated by a striking cover design from Tool guitarist and artist Adam Jones.

The band will perform select European dates this summer with special guest Trey Gunn—Pat Mastelotto’s former King Crimson bandmate—joining the lineup for an even more expansive live experience.

KOMARA II is available now in a 4-panel CD wallet and digital formats.

Track list:
1. Gerund 3:24
2. Allina Day 3:46
3. Not Our Way 1:16
4. Relocating Children 4:20
5. Gray Apples Fall 9:11
6. Judgement Day 1:54
7. Utorok Cowboy 3:44
8. Swallowing Tokyo 0:47
9. Burning Man 5:24
10. Komarantino 3:13
11. Squirm 4:26
12. The Returning (reprise) 6:51

Personnel:
David Kollar – Guitars, Bass, Keys
Pat Mastelotto – Traps and Buttons
Paolo Raineri – Trumpet & Flugelhorn

With Special Guests:
Arve Henriksen – Trumpet on “Komarantino”
Bill Munyon – Voice on “Not Our Way”
Deborah Carter Mastelotto – Voice on “Relocating Children” and “Burning Man”

KOMARA + GU Live

18.6.2025 Prešov - Stromoradie
19.6.2025 Bratislava - Pink Whale
20.6.2025 Trenčín - KC Hviezda
21.6.2025 Opava - Letní Slunovrat festival
23.6.2025 Praha - Palác Akropolis

David Kollar - guitar, synths
Pat Mastelotto - drums
Paolo Raineri - trumpet
Trey Gunn - Warr guitar

To pre-order: https://7dmedia.com/komara2

For more information: https://7dmedia.com

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

Prog Multi-Instrumentalist Tim Morse To Release Remastered & Expanded 20th Anniversary Edition of His Debut Album “Transformation”

Prog multi-instrumentalist Tim Morse will be releasing a remastered and expanded 20th anniversary edition of his debut album “Transformation” on July 5, 2025! Transformation is a concept album about how a person can undergo a series of events in their lifetime that will ultimately leave him/her transformed as a result of the experience. However, unlike many concept albums, the songs on Transformation can be listened to and enjoyed separately outside of the whole album/concept.

Says Tim, “At the end of last year (producer) Mark Dean and I were observing that 2025 would be the 20th anniversary of my debut album Transformation. We decided that we would celebrate that occasion by releasing a completely new remastered version of the album with bonus tracks. Mark took on the remaster of the original recording and left me to organize the bonus tracks. I decided to put them into three groups, 1. Associated Recordings (music recorded in that era, but not intended for the album), 2. Live Recordings (live songs from Transformation, along with a cover version of the Genesis song 'Dance on a Volcano'), 3. Alternate Mixes and Demos. As it turns out, we found that there was over 60 minutes of bonus tracks, making it an essential album for fans of this music.”

“One of the associated recordings became the song 'Sacred Skies.' It was originally written and recorded with only drums, bass and a keyboard pad for one of Mark's guitar students to practice playing different modes. Says Tim, “As a joke my working title for it was 'Mr. Mister' because it had a bit of that band's sound. When the song was rediscovered this year, Mark and I completed it with additional guitar and keyboard parts. I'm very pleased with the hypnotic and spacey atmosphere it conjures.”

Tim Morse “Sacred Skies”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRObCAthRnU

The recording of the original album was a labor of love - it was a mission in life for Tim Morse and Mark Dean. They wrote, arranged, recorded and mixed for over a year until it was finished. Says Tim, “I'd often work my day job and drive an hour to his recording studio, where we'd start around 6 p.m. and finish at about two in the morning. I'd drive home in the early hours and then start the process all over again. While that might sound exhausting, I actually found the experience exhilarating. I was finally working with a producer who also happened to be a writer/multi-instrumentalist that could help me realize my musical dreams. For example when I told Mark that I wanted to add a Gregorian Chant to one of the songs, he didn't bat an eye. It was the first time I was recording music without looking at the clock in the studio, thinking about the recording budget or worrying about any 'rules' (musical or otherwise). For months it was just Mark and myself piloting the ship with occasional cameo appearances from other musicians.”

“The first thing we worked on became the song 'Present Moment.' I had written the music for it in college and performed it as an instrumental with a fusion band I was in at the time. When Mark and I met, we agreed to finish it as a song with lyrics and a vocal melody. The recording of 'Present Moment' became its own progressive rock adventure with layers of keyboard parts, haunting guitar melodies, a 28 voice choir and the incredible lead vocals of Rich Zeller. The live version of this song is the first single from the 20th Anniversary Edition of Transformation.”

Tim Morse “Present Moment”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FDG9oyGZvDA

Track list:
1. Present Moment (remastered 2025)
2. To Set Sail (remastered 2025)
3. Prelude (remastered 2025)
4. Goodbye (remastered 2025)
5. Shatter (remastered 2025)
6. Temptation (remastered 2025)
7. Adrift (remastered 2025)
8. Apocalyptic Visions (remastered 2025)
9. Ascension (remastered 2025)
10. Sacred Skies (bonus track)
11. Present Moment Live (bonus track)
12. Adrift Live (bonus track)
13. Apocalyptic Visions Live (bonus track)
14. Dance on a Volcano Live (bonus track)
15. Goodbye Single Edit (bonus track)
16. Shatter Early Mix (bonus track)
17. Temptation Redux '25 (bonus track)
18. Apocalyptic Visions Redux '25 (bonus track)
19. The Chase Scene Demo (bonus track)
20. Vicious Cycle Demo (bonus track)
21. Prelude Demo (bonus track)
22. Haulin' Oats Demo (bonus track)
23. Cloudburst Demo (bonus track)
24. The Last Wave (bonus track)

Tim Morse began his instrument instruction at a young age and started composing immediately upon picking up the guitar. He later moved onto the piano and studied as a music composition major, writing extended pieces such as a string quartet and two piano sonatas. During this time Tim performed with various rock and fusion bands and played on many recording sessions. Tim’s first album of original music was entitled “Transformation” and was released in 2005. The album was well received by the Progressive Rock community and was recognized as keeping in the tradition of seventies prog-rock yet recorded and performed with a modern edge.

His second album “Faithscience” was released in 2012 and musically it picked up where “Transformation” left off, continuing to explore the best of Progressive Rock. In addition to this release Tim became a member of the Jerry Jennings band and formed The Mangoes with Bret Bingham. The Mangoes released their debut album in 2014 and it was appreciated for its pop sensibility and quirky humor. His more recent solo releases “III”, “The Archaeology Project” and "Soundtracks" were also warmly embraced by critics and fans alike.

Tim’s cover version of the classic Yes song “Awaken” has received the ultimate compliments from members of Yes – Rick Wakeman enthused, “Best YES cover I’ve heard …well done to everybody” and Jon Anderson said, “Great job with ‘Awaken’…the fact you sat around and decided to perform it is a treat…. not an easy work!” Composer/musician Adam Holzman was so impressed by this performance of it that he offered to do his own remix of the song (both versions can be found on Tim’s YouTube channel).

Tim Morse/Parallels 'Awaken' cover version: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ay1N95FqXWM

Here’s what the press has said about Tim Morse’s previous albums:

(Soundtracks)

“A kaleidoscopic recording that seamlessly shifts from anthemic rock to buoyant Beatles-esque pop to sweeping and swirling kinetic instrumentals to ethereal soundscapes. Soundtracks features literate, observational songwriting that explores the complexity of modern society and relationships, and offers a hopeful view that the positive elements of this species will eventually triumph.” – Anil Prasad, Innerviews

“I find I want to listen more and more. Soundtracks is a very engaging album and Tim Morse is a writer and player with lots to say. Buy this right now!” – John Wilcox, Progsheet

“A pleasant album that offers a lot for fans of progressive rock that’s on the mellow and melodic side.” – Jon Davis, Expose

“Taken as a whole, Soundtracks is a pure joy. I can't wait to play it again.” – Michale Popke, Sea of Tranquility

“This album could appeal to fans of Barclay James Harvest, Strawbs, Anthony Phillips, Ken Baird or even Tim Bowness (sans the breathy vocals). I also hear vague but reminiscent snippets here and there from The Beatles which is fine by me.” – Greg Cummins, DPRP

“When the piano-encrusted “Deidra” and “Lullaby” arrive at the scene with a six-string lace in tow to wind things down in the most tender manner, the glacially romantic, yet robustly dynamic, “Vortex” is left hanging in the ether to finally suck the spectator in Tim Morse’s universe. It’s the place to be.” – Dmitry M. Epstein, DME

“It’s high quality and works well. It would probably be a highlight of many artists’ catalog.” – Gary Hill, Music Street Journal

Prog Magazine chose the first single from Soundtracks, "Blueberry Way" as one of its tracks of the week.

(The Archaeology Project)

“A well rounded retrospective and a fitting showcase for his musical inspirations and talents.” – Geoff Feakes, DPRP

“A great way to discover Tim Morse!” – Music in Belgium

“This release is an ideal place to start your exploration of his material.” – Anil Prasad, Innerviews

“A magnificent fourteen song retrospective of Morse’s music from 2005-2020.” – Exclusive Magazine

“Classy...that speaks to both the quality and the consistency of Morse’s music. I can’t think of a better introduction to his music than this CD.” – Gary Hill, Music Street Journal

(Tim Morse III)

“There’s no doubt fans of symphonic prog will find much to enjoy. Recommended.” – Jerry Lucky, The Progressive Rock Files

“Musically, ‘III’ is enjoyable – occupying the lighter end of the Yes style spectrum.” – PROG Magazine

“Recommended for fans of melodic rock with some progressive touches.” – Jon Davis, Expose

(Faithscience)

“Tim Morse deserves to make it into the mainstream, as he surely one of the greats of the genre.” – John Bollenberg, iO Pages

“A smartly arranged, melodic-symphonic opus.” – John Collinge, Progression Magazine

“Probably the biggest surprise of the year…and highly recommended to fans of classic prog.” – Kinesis

(Transformation, original 2005 release)

“Sounds great...unbelievably proficient." Bill Bruford

"Deftly bridges classic and modern prog." Sea of Tranquility

"Transformation is a work truly realized, an impressive work of creativity that grows on one even more after repeated listening.” – Andres Valle (Mellotron)

“An interesting and expansive collection of symphonic prog songs…it not only rewards repeated listening, it demands it.” – DPRP

Tim is also a published author and his book “Yesstories” has sold over 20,000 copies worldwide. His book “Classic Rock Stories” was published by the St. Martin’s Press and was featured on the Howard Stern show and VH1. He has also written for music magazines over the years including Mix, Guitar World, Keyboard and Bass Player.

Tim will be doing videos and PR to support the release of “Transformation (20th Anniversary Edition).” He’s also working on an electronic music project that should be released in 2026. As for live performance, that is completely up to what happens with interest/demand for shows.

In closing Tim has this to impart, “I hope my fans will check out this new remastered version of Transformation as it has never sounded better. Also, I’m always grateful when anyone takes the time to listen to my music. In this modern age of endless distractions, it is a lovely thing when someone will truly listen to music.”

Release date: July 5, 2025

Transformation (20th Anniversary Edition) is available for preorder at Bandcamp.com: https://timmorse.bandcamp.com/album/transformation-20th-anniversary-edition

For more information:
Tim Morse website: https://timmorse.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/timmorsemusic
YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/TimMorseProgRock

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

Steve Rothery and Thorsten Quaeschning Introduce Bioscope

Steve Rothery and Thorsten Quaeschning introduce their collaborative project, Bioscope, which launches with the album Gentō on August 22nd!

First single “Kaleidoscope”  OUT NOW!

Bioscope is the highly anticipated collaborative project from guitar maestro Steve Rothery (Marillion) and electronic composer Thorsten Quaeschning (Tangerine Dream).

 

 Their debut album Gentō, out August 22nd 2025 on earMUSIC, offers a deeply atmospheric journey where two distinct musical worlds converge. The album features an extraordinary performance by Elbow’s drummer Alex Reeves, whose rhythmic finesse and musical intuition bring depth and subtle momentum to the entire album.

The project began in early 2020 and gradually developed through focused five-day sessions in Berlin and at Rothery’s home studio in Southwest England. Each of the five instrumental tracks draws inspiration from man's endearing fascination with the moving image. From soaring guitar themes that recall the best of progressive rock to sequencer-driven passages rooted in Berlin School electronica, the music unfolds like a film without images – immersive, dreamlike, and full of detail. Each track reflects a shared sensibility shaped by decades of musical exploration.

Gentō will become available in retail stores as a CD+Blu-ray Digipak, including the full album in High-Res, Dolby Atmos as well as Dolby 5.1 Surround Mix, and Heavyweight Black 2LP Gatefold.

Pre-order the album Gentō HERE

The first track, “Kaleidoscope,” taken from the album, is out today and offers an exciting first glimpse into the intriguing fusion of Steve Rothery’s unmistakable melodic guitar work and Thorsten Quaeschning’s mastery of the analog electronic world. It’s a perfect blend between progressive rock and ambient music.

Stream the single “Kaleidoscope” HERE

Bioscope are Steve Rothery, founding member and guitarist of Marillion, whose melodic playing helped define the sound of modern progressive rock and led to millions of records sold and Thorsten Quaeschning, musical director of Tangerine Dream, credited on over 80 releases and internationally known for his work on film and game soundtracks, real-time composition, and electronic music innovation.

Together, they bring decades of musical experience to a project that feels both intimate and expansive. Rothery’s guitar lines speak with emotional clarity, while Quaeschning’s detailed sound design shapes the music’s internal architecture.

Their collaboration is not just a fusion of styles, but a thoughtful dialogue between two established musical identities – a true “bioscope” in the sense of offering a view of life through music.

The name Bioscope comes from the Greek bios (life) and skopeein (to look). Before cinema, it meant “a view or survey of life” – a fitting metaphor for a project that turns musical experience into shared perception.

Bioscope

Gentō
Album Release: August 22, 2025
Single Release: “Kaleidoscope” May 15th, 2025

Formats:
- 2CD+Blu-ray Digipak
- Black 2LP Gatefold
- Digital Audio

Tracklist CD:
1. Vanishing Point (Pt. 1, 2 & 3)
2. Gentō
3. Kinetoscope (Pt. 1 & 2)
4. Bioscope (Pt. 1, 2 & 3)
5. Kaleidoscope

Tracklist Blu-ray:
Full Album with visual in Stereo, Dolby Atmos and 5.1 48kHz/24bit

Tracklist LP:
Side A: Vanishing Point (Pt. 1, 2 & 3)
Side B: Gentō
             Kaleidoscope
Side C: Kinetoscope (Pt. 1 & 2)
Side D:  Bioscope (Pt. 1, 2 & 3)

 

FOR PR INQUIRIES, CONTACT: 
Chip Ruggieri 
Chipster PR & Consulting, Inc. 
chip@chipsterpr.com

Guitarist/Bassist/Composer Barend Tromp To Release New Album “Odd Time Concepts” on June 6, 2025

Barend Tromp is a guitarist, bassist, and composer from the Netherlands whose music transcends borders and genres. With a background as diverse as his sound, Barend studied classical guitar at the Conservatory of Tilburg and attained a masters in Music Science at the University of Amsterdam. His passion for musical exploration led him to India and across Europe, where he studied the sitar under renowned masters. These influences — from Western classical to Indian raga — deeply inform his bass playing, resulting in a distinctive, genre-defying style.

Blending the rhythmic intricacy of slap bass with melodic and harmonic elements borrowed from guitar and sitar traditions, Barend has developed a voice all his own. In addition to his performance work, he’s a dedicated educator, teaching at various music schools and serving as a long-standing contributor to the Dutch bass magazine De Bassist. He is also the author of two guitar books and the acclaimed two-volume instructional series Next Level Slap Bass, widely respected for its innovative approach.

Barend’s music is as eclectic as it is original — a fusion of jazz, funk, world music, 70s progressive rock, electronic textures, and 20th-century classical influences. Yet, despite the complexity of these elements, his compositions remain grounded in groove and emotional resonance.

In 2021, Barend released his debut solo album Six Against Four, in which he showcases his multi-instrumentalist skills by both writing and performing all parts himself. The following year, his imaginative concept album Juvenile Fish Tales was released by Subcontinental Records (India). Inspired by a childhood book about marine life, the album features eleven instrumental tracks — each representing a different fish — and includes a special guest appearance by legendary American bassist Michael Manring. The project was met with widespread acclaim for its creativity and execution.

In 2025, Barend takes a bold leap into rhythmic experimentation with his third album, Odd Time Concepts, released on 7D Media — a U.S.-based label founded by visionary King Crimson alumnus Trey Gunn. Each of the album’s eleven tracks explores a unique time signature, ranging from familiar meters like 3/4 to more adventurous odd time signatures such as 13/16 and 21/8. Featuring four drummers, including progressive rock icon Pat Mastelotto (King Crimson, Stick Men), the album also includes a standout Warr guitar solo by Trey Gunn on the track “Madhuvanti.” Despite its experimental nature, the album remains accessible — maintaining groove and clarity throughout.

With each project, Barend Tromp continues to push the boundaries of composition and technique, crafting music that is both innovative and deeply expressive. His work resonates with musicians and listeners alike, offering a fresh and fearless perspective on contemporary instrumental music.

Track list:
1. Sitharsis
2. Gamelan Sepuluh
3. Life Path 21
4. Heavy Slap
5. Madhuvanti
6. Baritone War
7. Chromatron (Parts 1-3)
8. Thirteen
9. Access to the Sixth Dimension
10. Pandrah Ka Yantra
11. Chromatron (Parts 4-5)

Credits:
Barend Tromp - fretted and fretless basses, fretted and fretless guitars, sitar and synths
Trey Gunn - Warr guitar solo on 5
Pat Mastelotto - drums on 8
Ron van Stratum - drums on 2 & 10
Nathan van de Wouw - drums on 1 & 6
Eugene Vugts - drums on 4

All songs composed and mixed by Barend Tromp
Mastered by Michael Valentine West
Graphic design by Maarten Tromp

For more information: https://7dmedia.com/odd-time-concepts
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@barendtromp
Next Level Slap Bass Website: https://nextlevel-slapbass.com
Next Level Slap Bass Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/next_level_slap_bass/
Next Level Slap Bass Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NextLevelSlapBass/

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

Progressive Rock Review: Jethro Tull-Curious Ruminant

Release Date:  March 7, 2025

Label: Inside Out

Website

Ian Anderson's creativity, a timeless force that has not waned after all these years, continues to shine. His primary vehicle for presenting his creations, Jethro Tull, is still making viable progressive rock, and that legacy is upheld in the most recent recording, Curious Ruminant.

 

As most fans have become intimately familiar with Ian 2.0 and his voice, the music's strength carries him into the future. He sings/talks his way through his storytelling, a familiar and comforting journey that works just fine as far as I am concerned.

 

The subject matter presented here can be deep and reflective for a man nearing 80. He hints in the liner notes that he is still here and plans to continue, but you never know what tomorrow may bring. So, as a long-time fan, I appreciate what he continues to do more with each passing year.

 

Curious Ruminant is an excellent addition to the Jethro Tull catalog. The one song that amazed me was the nearly seventeen-minute "Drink From The Same Well."  It was on the level of some lengthier prog rock classics, such as Thick As A Brick. It was not nearly as long, just reminiscent of that musical muscle stretching out like the earlier version of the band, and what it was known for.

 

"Puppet And The Puppet Master" kicks off the journey with a soft beginning, then into a flute intro. His playing of that instrument remains captivating. The pace gradually increases with fluidity, yet is restrained and quite effective. A splendid solo from the electric guitar is a highlight, albeit short, as the other positions also get their chance to announce their arrival to the mix.

 

"Curious Ruminant" begins with an excellent bass and guitar. The music is fantastic and rocks, with some holding back on exuberance and intensity. Acoustic interludes find their way into the mix, and the electric guitar lines weave into the tapestry of multi-hued sounds. A melodic flute coursing through brings pleasantries as more electric guitar fills the space.

 

"Dunsinane Hill" features a mellowed-out flute piece casually inviting you in. Intricate guitar notes float over that beautiful instrument as the bass and drums precisely keep the path clear for Ian's skillful approach to every composition. Some catchy rhythms and lovely flute passages keep your interest.

 

"The Tipu House" immediately starts with a faster tempo with the flute. A tempered guitar lends elegance as the bottom end holds on strong and true. Keyboard flurries are catchy here and firmly in place, giving it all a prog-like feel. A "shut the door" ending finishes out the track.

 

"Savannah Of Paddington Green" immediately brings the acoustic guitar to the front, accompanied by Ian's lyrics. The tempo increases with a colorful amount of music, changes direction, and returns to where it started. The lyrics reach you through the perfected instrumentation and Ian's subdued delivery. It's important to note how understandable Ian is, which is key in interpretation, where he is coming from, or always implying, to make you feel and reflect more.

 

"Stygian Hand" rang out in a celebratory atmosphere as if the court jesters had entered to entertain the royal family. It felt like an old English setting in the days of castles, moats, and drawbridges. Some rhythmic guitars, acoustically driven, take hold with superbly magical flute playing. Andrew Gidding does a fantastic job on the keys, as he always does. A well-placed electric guitar, albeit just a taste, closes out this side of the platter.

 

Side B is where things get more interesting, intense, and colorful from start to finish. The first side set the tone, and now they take it all to the next level.

 

"Over Jerusalem" begins the second half of this musical journey with acoustic strings accompanied by the flute, a perfect marriage. Soft backing music prevails as Ian sings. The halfway point brings some great electric guitar kicking in, with the flute blended in nicely. This is very JT-like as the electric guitar lets loose for the first time for some exciting licks. The mix is extraordinary as the flute and acoustic guitar answer each other. The best of both worlds comes at you, bringing a wonderfully energetic opener.

 

As I mentioned, "Drink From The Same Well" is impressive. A beautiful flute and an acoustic piano introduce this multiverse of music. The changes in direction during the track's run are significant. The flute takes a more aggressive stance with consummate elegance and precision, and as the changes develop, you recognize the instrumental bliss of it all. Sudden stops provide more turns in the road as the flute is dancing its way into your heart. This is an instrumental work of art. The bass then becomes prominent. As if to say, "I want to let you know it is still a key component in driving this musical ship."

 

A lovely piano interlude adds an extra layer of ambiance. Then, there is a short pause as Ian begins to speak and offer the words of importance: "I drink from the same well as you." This is a prolific humanitarian message to us all. The energy shifts yet again to a more upbeat tempo as the flute sounds inflected with jazz for a short period, which was an entirely different twist. After that, it returns to the more colorful notes we enjoy. The track turns into an excellent mover with varying tempos and tones. The progressive rock holds you spellbound as there is another pause, then Ian goes into the closing out of the recording, reciting "Interim Sleep."

 

Curious Ruminant features all the facets of a Jethro Tull album you would expect, including acoustic and electric guitar moments and embellishments of many other instruments for color and texture.

This is everything one could ask for at this point in the band's career, including moments of progressive rock that you will remember fondly. That is very satisfying as a music lover and a lifelong band fan.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-PMR Reviews Founder

May 28, 2025

Tracks:

Side A:

Puppet And The Puppet Master [4:04]

Curious Ruminant [6:00]

Dunsinane Hill [4:17]

The Tipu House [3:31]

Savannah Of Paddington Green [3:13]

Stygian Hand [4:16]

Side B:

Over Jerusalem [5:55]

Drink From The Same Well [16:42]

Interim Sleep [2:33]