Author: progsphere

Ford Cotton is a progressive rock and electronic songwriter from Brighton, Michigan, whose latest release, Cerebri-nebula, delves deep into the complexities of mental health awareness. Through layered soundscapes and emotionally charged lyrics, the EP captures the raw intensity of personal struggles and the hope for healing. Ford’s journey back to music after years away is a testament to resilience, and his thoughtful approach to songwriting blends elements of his background in music theory and sound synthesis. In this conversation, Ford opens up about the inspiration behind Cerebri-nebula, his rediscovery of his musical voice, and the challenges of authentically expressing mental health experiences…

If you’re in the mood for bone-crushing industrial chaos fused with the brutality of death metal, Czechia’s Voidmonger delivers a relentless auditory assault with their debut album, Lies of Aquarius. Released last year, the record is a grim manifesto, drenched in apocalyptic warnings about the sinister forces lurking both in the physical world and the digital ether. It’s a harrowing journey, brimming with cyber-infused malice and grim narratives, crafted through ten bone-rattling tracks. Lies of Aquarius by Voidmonger The album wastes no time plunging listeners into its dystopian abyss. From the opening track, Voidmonger conjures a sense of impending doom with…

Voice of One Crying in the Wilderness: The Story of John the Baptist is an ambitious and transformative rock opera crafted by composer and lyricist Brian Stemetzki, operating under the moniker Valley of Salt. Guided by the seasoned production of Marty Willson-Piper, the album transcends the conventional boundaries of Christian-themed music, presenting a profound and immersive exploration of faith, redemption, and resilience through the lens of John the Baptist’s story. Much like Jesus Christ Superstar, Stemetzki’s work fuses complex melodies, evocative lyrics, and diverse vocal arrangements, offering a contemporary narrative that invites listeners on a spiritual and existential journey. Recorded in Texas…

The self-titled debut EP from Brazilian progressive rock duo Saturno Prestes is a striking and multifaceted introduction to a band unafraid to explore the vast frontiers of sound and thought. Blending virtuosic musicianship with moments of orchestral lyricism, folk-tinged balladry, and powerhouse rock anthems, the release is a testament to the duo’s creative vision and technical prowess. Sung entirely in Portuguese, the EP seamlessly intertwines philosophical musings, science fiction narratives, and existential reflections, all wrapped in a lush, immersive soundscape. Saturno Prestes EP by Saturno Prestes Formed by Richard Martins (vocals) and Nicolas Carnier (guitars), Saturno Prestes draws inspiration from…

Living in Shadows, the UK-based progressive rock band, has forged a distinct path with their unique blend of progressive rock, jazz, and 90s grunge. Their latest album, Neon Burning, released in June 2024, explores themes of endings and new beginnings; from confronting challenges to embracing the unknown, the album offers a musical journey that reflects the complexities of life. In this interview, we sit down with the band to discuss the inspiration behind Neon Burning, the creative process, and how their eclectic mix of influences, from classic prog to jazz, has shaped their distinctive sound. Join us as we dive into the…

In this in-depth conversation with Stef Kohler, the mastermind behind the Dutch progressive metal project One Velvet Winter, we dive into the world of Jesus in Dystopia, a sprawling five-disc concept album that challenges the status quo. With over four and a half hours of music spanning genres from classical guitar and psychedelic rock to doom and avant-garde metal, Kohler takes us on a dark and philosophical journey exploring the effects of big data, manipulation, and the growing urge for control in our modern world. Jesus in Dystopia is a profound reflection of the tumultuous times we live in, fueled by Kohler’s…

Hailing from the small town of Slaný and making waves in Prague’s live music scene, Voodoo Garden is a heavy stoner psychedelic rock band blending elements of hard-hitting riffs, atmospheric jams, and witchy vocals. Since their formation in 2022, the band keeps on creating a sound that captures the essence of raw energy and mystical allure. In this interview, we sit down with Ondra, Tea, Martin, and Matěj of Voodoo Garden to discuss their formation, influences, the story behind their EP Age of the Mist, and the challenges they’ve faced as a young band navigating the Prague music scene. The…

After a decade-long hiatus, progressive rock project Lamentia has triumphantly returned with their new EP, Earth Libretto. Formed in 2004, Lamentia’s journey has been marked by creative evolution, personal challenges, and an unwavering commitment to their craft. Their latest release reflects a renewed creative spirit sparked by the loss of a former member, a poignant reminder of the music that had yet to be given its due. Earth Libretto offers a rich social commentary, channeling the band’s signature sound influenced by prog legends such as Pain of Salvation, Opeth, Porcupine Tree, and Ayreon. In this insightful interview following Lamentia’s inclusion on Progotronics…

After a six-year hiatus, German occult prog rockers The Witches’ Dream have returned with Muses & Conjurations, a spellbinding release that emerged from the creative cauldron of the 2020 lockdown. The album is a captivating synthesis of Black Sabbath’s ominous heft, Opeth’s dynamics, and Witchcraft’s retro allure—all infused with a modern, electrifying twist. If you’re seeking the perfect soundtrack for a dark, witch-themed gathering, this record is bound to cast its spell. Muses & Conjurations by THE WITCHES´ DREAM The opening track, “Calamity,” lives up to its name, offering a familiar yet compelling occult formula. Marcel Schiborr’s charismatic vocals intertwine with…

Berlin-based duo House of Terror emerges from the depths of the progressive and psychedelic rock scene with a debut album that defies conventional genre boundaries. Their full-length debut, Transmission Lost, is a sprawling, adventurous journey through soundscapes that merge improvisation, intensity, and melodic finesse. While hints of avant-rock, jazz rock, post-rock, electronic, space rock, and krautrock are woven into their sound, House of Terror builds a musical identity that challenges. Transmission Lost by House of Terror At its core, Transmission Lost thrives on dynamic contrasts. The album’s four tracks, each clocking in between ten and nearly twelve minutes, are sprawling epics where explosive energy…