Nearly eight years after Circu5's eponymous 2017 debut (see review) this British band comes with a brand new album. Titled Clockwork Tulpa. Clockwork Tulpa is the band's first album release as a full band, with Tin Spirits frontman and bassist Mark Kilminster and drummer Lee Moulding joining founder Steve Tilling. Who was responsible for doing the lead vocals and all the guitar and keyboard parts. "With Mark and Lee in the band, the band can now establish its own unique identity," says Steve. "I'm excited about where we can take the band next." The extended gap between both albums was due to Steve contracting Long Covid and committing to projects with ex-members of UK rock band, XTC. "The songs reflect life's ups and downs during that time. But I learned a valuable lesson: don't be swayed by the plans of others. Stay true to yourself and your goals." In a way you could say that Clockwork Tulpa is a concept album. Because it continues the story of 'Grady' which started on the band's debut album. He is a troubled character moulded from birth by the mysterious CIRCU5 organisation. "It's not just storytelling," says Steve. "It's a reflection on how people navigate the trauma of tough childhoods without falling prey to isolating belief systems. But ultimately, it's about making the best songs we can." The album starts and ends with the sound of a horn coming from a boat in a harbour. It arrives and departs. Music wise Clockwork Tulpa continues where they left of on their debut. Meaning the songs have progressive rock influences throughout the entire album, but they are not too complex and easy to digest for most listeners. Many times you can easily sing along with them! The influences taken from XTC and Tin Spirits are most certainly notable on several tracks. That's fine by me and they do fit perfectly with the progressive rock influences. Sometimes I had also the impression I was listening to the lesser complex songs released by Frost* or Lonely Robot. Mainly because the vocal parts of Tilling sometimes resemble those of John Mitchell. Those vocal parts are top notch once again and also the playing of the musicians is of a rather high level. The same can be said about the production which is crystal clear. It is not easy to mention any highlights. But I certainly believe that Make No Sound, Sing Now, Infinite Lucid Geometric Fever Dream, Scars and Don't Spare Me are songs that can be loved by many progheads thanks to the several excellent instrumental parts. Just like with the release of the debut album, this album comes again in a hardcover and contains again an illustrated booklet with all lyrics and accompanying photographs. Bravo for taking the effort once again to come up with something which is worth having in your hands and to look in. I could only wish every CD release was looking this way! I can only say welcome back Steve Tilling with your musical project Circu5. You and your fellow band members delivered once again an excellent album to listen to. Maybe it is for some people not complex enough but I don't care. Sometimes it is okay to hear this kind of music once in a while! Read our interview with Steve Tilling. *** Henri Strik Where to buy? |
