Wired To Earth is the amazing debut album by Tin Spirits, the prog rockers from Swindon (UK), featuring former XTC guitar player Dave Gregory. The album, which is way too short in my opinion, contains four compositions along with a cover - I hate covers by the way − of the Genesis song Back In NYC from the album The Lamb Lies Down On Broadway (1974). The quartet was formed back in 2008 and consists of Daniel Steinhart (guitar), Mark Kilminister (bass guitar, vocals), Doug Mussard (drums) next to the already mentioned Dave Gregory. Wired To Earth is a typical British album that channels the spirit of progressive rock from the seventies. All the songs are rather melodic, and hold irresistible hooks and melody lines. Furthermore I would like to point out the great guitar solos of Dave Gregory which are a mixture of new wave, psychedelic sixties sounds and rock riffs from the seventies. Just listen to the instrumental opener Glimmer and you'll catch my drift immediately. Follow-up ..And Go is a wonderful guitar based track with lots of diversity and breathtaking guitar loops by Gregory. Why they decided to cover Back In NYC is a mystery to me as I would rather have heard an original Tin Spirits song instead! Broken is the longest song on the album which is again so very British, featuring a long XTC-like guitar solo. The last song, Breathe Shallow, is more mainstream rock with fine melodies and a superb guitar solo at the end. All in all Wired To Earth is a must have for all fans of British progressive rock music. Get it now! **** Martien Koolen (edited by Peter Willemsen) Where to buy? |
