Spock’s Beard: X
About 9 months ago I sent $30 of my hard earned (I work in IT support) money to the gentlemen in Spock’s Beard, one of the greatest progressive rock bands that has ever been. Anyone who understands and appreciates what the genre is truly about would back me up. I sent them the money to help with the cost of recording their next album and I did so with no hesitation at all.
Early this week I received the beautifully packaged result (see Twitter post here) and as I am with every SB release, I’m absolutely floored with the quality in all aspects of the recording. First thing I noticed was how it was properly mastered and that I had to turn it up slightly more than I do with other recent recordings. (See “Loudness War”) That made me smile straight away.
First thing I heard was huge, full band unison hits going into an eighth note bass line that gave me chills within the first minute. Before hearing any more, I knew then that I had yet another proper, Spock’s Beard record that would be added to my list of treasured recordings. As “X” continues to repeat in my car and all of my media players, I still feel the same way as I did during that first listen.
The mix is wonderful, with the drums and bass nice an hot where they should be. All of Nick D’Virgilio’s vocals are brilliant, simply breathtaking at times. And as usual, his drumming is nothing short of mind-blowing. Dave Meros’ bass playing on this one is standing out more than ever before for me, as are Ryo Okumoto’s keyboards. It’s a modern sound with all of the welcomed nods to the past. I don’t know… it’s like I’m experiencing Spock’s Beard again for the first time. With “X” I sometimes can’t believe what I’m hearing.
I could go on but I’m going to shut up now. But before I do… If you’re somebody that enjoys a proper, smart progressive record with only the finest musicianship and songwriting, and for all that is good in this world, go buy a copy here.
