I'd be
the first one to admit that I wasn't a big fan of Sky Architect. Originally, I
was excited about them simply because of their style (on paper), their art, and,
heck, even their supremely awesome name. However, when I heard "Excavations of
the Mind" and "A Dying Man's Hymn" (dang, what is with their amazing naming
ability), something ultimately fell flat for me.
Well, that is
no more. "A Billion Years of Solitude" has finally given me what I always wanted
in Sky Architect's sound.
This band is
generally very rock-based in their sound. They are definitely like a cross
between Porcupine Tree, Pink Floyd, and other 70's prog. That's the last I will
mention other groups, however, as Sky Architect has their own sound. It is
richly rocky, spiritually personal, and, with this new release, I can add
wonderfully spacey. Yes, I think that's what I was missing in their first two
releases: a fleshed-out space rock vibe. In "A Billion Years of Solitude", the
band gives us an amazing ethereal vibe involving everything from synth to horns
and wine glasses (yes, you read that correctly). This personality is fresh and
inspiring, and it joins Tom Luchies' vocals as being an emotional focal point of
the band.
The musicians
are all noteworthy in their chops ability, certainly. What impresses me the
most, however, is the unity of the group. Their sound is very cooperative. Sure,
there are plenty of guitar and keyboard solos, but the band is ever behind them
to the point where it doesn't seem like showboating. So, this core sound is an
awesome foundation for the surreal and celestially somber emotional content that
this album brings. This sense of drifting, ever drifting, in the vacuum of space
is palpable throughout the album. It leaves quite an impression.
I think there
are some obvious favorite tracks here. The opening epic, "The Curious One" is
soaked in high-tuned guitar work and funky space vibes. "Elegy of a Solitary
Giant" features an amazingly eccentric groove mixed with beautiful piano and
sorrowful horns. Lastly, the best song on the album is "Traveller's Last
Candle". This epic set piece is structured so well with its rocky vibe that
gives way to mournful keyboard interludes. It's truly outstanding, and probably
one of the best tracks from 2013.
Sky Architect
has made another fan. This album is awesome in every sense. I love the
personality that the band has injected into "A Billion Years of Solitude", and
the emotion content here has also perked my ears. If you are a prog fan, you
need to hear this album.
