I had planned this post to be for the Holocaust CD featuring their singles from the old NWOBHM days – though postponed that until next time to get some words down about the quite wonderful new CD by proggers Isildurs Bane featuring the legendary Peter Hammill on vocals.
Never heard of Isildurs Bane? Me neither. Peter Hammill is an “old hero” of mine way back from the Van Der Graaf Generator days and beyond.
A proper musical genius in my eyes. A prog mastermind.
Thus, simply had to snap up In Amazonia on the spot without being too sure of what to expect. Absolutely no regrets there.
Van Der Graaf/Hammill solo stuff never an easy listen at first. It’s generally complicated listening which one either loves or hates. A bit “marmite” as they saying goes.
The same can be said about In Amazonia however once that “a ha” moment comes this collaboration between Isildurs Bane and Hammill proves itself to be something special and a progressive rock masterpiece.
Hammill’s vocal power is superb. That distinctive recognisable intensity of delivery going from the bleak to the intense.
The music has some variety to it as well. The six tracks are all different and all hold the attention throughout with the longer cuts (Before You Know It, This is Where? and The Day is Done) ranging from the hypnotic to tribal to rocking each not unlike classic VDGG.
Have a listen to This is Where? as an example. A chilled intro before it explodes and Hammill’s vocal range. Marvellous.
For an old progger like me, Hammill remains a master of the art and teaming up with Isildurs Bane to come up with In Amazonia is an inspired combination.
I appreciate it might not be everyone’s “cup of tea” though give it a chance and it does reward more with each listen. Bleak, stark, dark, brooding, hypnotic, heavy in parts, atmospheric. Inventive modern prog with a retro feel. Properly superb.
ISILDURS BANE AND PETER HAMMILL IN AMAZONIA ON AMAZON HERE
Back to NWOBHM next time with the Holocaust singles CD…….In the meantime, do check out In Amazonia.
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