Solstice are currently on a noticeably upward trajectory and this new album from the veteran proggers certainly agrees with that statement as it isa most uplifting and positive album of some very fine music indeed.
The album has a mere six tracks (if you include the bonus), all around the 5 or 6 minute duration, along which there is a near fourteen minute epic in Twin Peaks.
The overall impression is that Solstice have found a rich vein of inspiration that they are digging deep into. In this instance that vein is a very uplifting and joyful one, maybe it’s a response to the current tough times in which the world finds itself with global madness on the geopolitical stages and an almost demented leadership that seems to be looking after the rich and ignoring everyday folks. This promotes division and accelerates discord while throwing out all the mechanisms that help govern. Onto this disquieting stage steps Solstice and this album that instead of moaning offers the listener a very uplifting escape from all that misery, instead offering some really positive sounds of joy that extoll gratitude and promote an air off togetherness. Even it’s title, ‘Clann’, speaks of building a team of togetherness and family or clan.
The opening track is Firefly, which sets the tone for the whole album, starting with a very upbeat synthesiser line and with the surging vocals of Jess Holland, who has a very distinct and clear voice which, when blended with the rest of the band, sounds extremely fine and very strong. Above all of this lies the splendid violin of Jenny Newman which is the icing on this exceptional cake. Andy Glass’ guitar lines weave magic everywhere, bringing the music together tightly. Andy is a fine player who is extremely melodic in style. There’s no wonder why he won this year’s Prog Magazine award so convincingly! Life, again, has a jaunty melody that accompanies the music, the song having both a looseness and a sparseness to it that works in a most attractive manner. There’s a lot happening throughout its six plus minutes duration as it builds in its intensity with Andy’s liquid guitar lines providing a great sonic tapestry of textures and sound. Plunk is a very funky number with a strong rhythmic drive and fine organ sounds. It is played in an unusual time signature which adds to its effectiveness, as does the brass embellishments that are employed during the song. This track is definitely a punchier little number that would work well live, I’m sure. An excellent guitar solo from Andy further enlivens things significantly, his playing whilst flashy and furious, is just right for the track as he doesn’t overplay it but it all works for the maximum impact of the song.
Frippa has more than an element of 1980’s King Crimson to it, especially in the main guitar riff. This track also benefits from the versatile and athletic violin of Jenny Newman who dances all over it, blending in well with both the angular guitar work by Andy and excellent keyboard work of Steven McDaniel. The precise drums of Peter Helmsley and the subtle yet strong bass lines from Robin Phillips are mightily impressive and when this dynamic rhythm section combines with the sweet, clear vocals of Jess Holland and backing vocalists of Ebony Buckle and Dyane Crutcher, you are a totally compelling and captivating close. The epic Twin Peaks has nothing to do with the David Lynch series of the same name, rather this is a sprawling track that works on every level with its gradual building and brooding intensity and sweet violin lines. It is a journey that keeps you enthralled throughout its near fourteen minute duration. There is not a moment wasted or surplus to it, it really works as an extended showcase for all that is good about the fine band and this great album. The bonus track Earthsong is a revisitation of a song that appeared on the first Solstice album ‘Silent Dance’ from 1984, here it is given a 2024 treatment by the current incarnation of the band. It opens with ringing guitar tones from Andy and some subtle bass lines from Robin, as I’ve never heard the debut version I can’t comment on this reworking except to say that it fits in well with the rest of the album and a delicate yet dynamic vocal from Jess works well and brings the album to a stately finale.
To be honest, what I like about this album is that it makes you happy, it’s upbeat and uplifting and, in a time where all we read and hear is downbeat, it’s great to have something that lifts you up, for a while at least! This album does that across its six tracks. Remember when music was a source of joy for you? Well, this music returns that feeling to you and so it is highly recommended from here.
This is a great album from a band who have weathered many storms and difficult times and seasons to re-emerge stronger, bolder and with much to offer in today’s world. I have no hesitation in commending this most wonderful release from Solstice.
Released 4th April, 2025.
Order the album here:
Coloured vinyl here:
https://fairsound.com/product/solstice-clann-rusty-red
Black vinyl here:
https://fairsound.com/product/solstice-clann-black