Rock and Roll is seen by many as yielding simple and straightforward songs, free from key changes, complex time signatures, and abstract lyricism; a world away from the world of symphonies, operas, and librettos. That ‘many’, however, does not include Keith Emerson, the virtuoso keyboardist who strove to unite the rhythmic drive of Rock and […]
progressive rock
Album Review: Steven Wilson – 4 ½
Steven Wilson 4 ½ 22 January 2015; Kscope To make that age-old claim that Steven Wilson is rock’s hardest-working musician feels somewhat disingenuous, because it somehow seems to understate his work ethic and dedication. Not only is he experiencing the boon of a lucrative solo career, aided by his constant touring, but he also maintains an […]
Album Review: Iamthemorning – From the House of Arts
Some artists release live albums in order to pay for a new Ferrari. Others tirelessly labour over them in order to ensure that they fully encapsulate their live performances. Iamthemorning’s Live at the House of Art solidly falls into the latter category. Having been funded solely by a KickStarter project and released independently, this album captures […]
Album Review: David Gilmour – Rattle That Lock
David Gilmour Rattle That Lock 18 September 2015 With the exception of 2014’s so-so denouement to the Pink Floyd saga, The Endless River, David Gilmour’s discography in the 21st century is a sparse one. In actual fact, this is his first solo album to be released in nine years, and his fourth overall. Still, you […]
The concept of a concept album
The concept album is one of the key stalwarts of 20th Century popular culture. It represents the height of the idea that rock and roll could become art, by allowing the songwriters to express their full artistic vision. The general definition of a concept album is “an album where all musical or lyrical ideas contribute […]