With apologies to all stargazers out there - Solace actually delivered their fifth studio album Fading Failing Ruin just after the summer solstice, and in time to celebrate the anniversary of their 30th year as a band (well... it's been a hectic summer!). All the heaviness, experience, and obvious maturity of their songwriting across three..
MAN – LIFE ON THE ROAD: On Air 1972-1983 (Esoteric / Cherry Red)
...very few of those musicians who passed through the ranks of what they affectionately called the 'Man Family Jungle' are still with us, sadly, This set, however, is a fine tribute to Mickey Jones, Deke Leonard, Clive John, Phil Ryan, Will Youatt and the rest of the departed Man Men, as we might say. They..
HELP YOURSELF – Passing Through: The Complete Studio Recordings (Esoteric / Cherry Red)
The twelve-minute Reaffirmation … is another stunning exercise in ensemble playing, and really shows how good the band could be when on the top of their game. Personally, I blame Man. For what, you may ask, and what relevance can a proggy Welsh band have to this review of a London-based bunch who hovered around..
Son of Man – Interview
Son Of Man, led by George Jones (son of man legend Mickey) recently released the album State of Dystopia (see review posted 27 Feb 2020). Following the release of the album, I have the opportunity to sit down with George for Velvet Thunder, and discuss the latest news about the band and also the strange..
Son of Man – State of Dystopia (Esoteric Antenna Recordings, Cherry Red Records)
"A State of Dystopia is defined as an imagined (hah!) state or society in which there is great suffering or injustice." No, I'm not about to get political with you all, I'm just pleased to report that Son of Man are about to release their second album, with that title, as a follow-up to their..