Moonparticle is the brain child of one time Steven Wilson guitarist, Niko Tsonev. In fact, there are a few ex and current SW employees on this album, namely Craig Blundell on drums, Adam Holzman on Keys, Theo Travis on wind instruments, and Niko himself. It’s almost a reunion of sorts.
This is part instrumental and part vocals featuring the talents of female vocalist Grog Lise, who also plays in a band called Die So Fluid. You can see the Prog credentials of this release are very high, and the music is very Prog with lots of seventies influences but with a very modern edge. It also gives Niko a chance to show his chops. The space he was given with SW didn’t show what tools he had in the locker. The music is quite eclectic and varies in style, and Niko switches from each effortlessly.
My favourite track is the epic sounding The Strength Of A Thousand Year Rose, which as far as ballads go, is huge. Also a big mention to the instrumental track, White Light, which has a great heavy groove, and in its slower moments, reminds me of Whiter Shade Of Pale. I’m a big fan of Craig Blundell’s drumming and he is excellent on this album. I think SW dropped the ball when dispensing his services. Anyhoo, a good album.
8.5/10 from The Grooveman.
