Spirergy is the musical project of multi-instrumentalist and composer David Allen, who is based in the north-west of England. This is the third album he has released under the Spirergy marque. Journey Beyond continues their overarching themes through its cosmically charged pieces of varying lengths, exploring ideas about humanity and our place in the universe and beyond. Musically, there are shades of Yes, occasionally Supertramp, Allen's voice often venturing into Roger Hodgson territory. A stabbing staccato keyboard riff opens the album opener Out Of The Darkness Comes Light, Allen then taking us on a journey full of celestial twists and turns along synth or guitar led passages. It's a long track but holds the attention throughout. Allen maintains the energy and a heavier groove on On A Quiet Night that features a crunchy guitar section. Looking Up offers a more contemplative feel, Allen in peak Hodgson mode vocally. It closes with a guitar solo that echoes Steve Howe on Yes's To Be Over. Allan shows real virtuosity on acoustic guitar during instrumental Ethereal Child, which is followed by the epic Battleground Echoes, its regimented, military-style drums setting the pace for a musical meditation on the futility of war. Look out for a lovely piano interlude and a soaring guitar solo on this track. A piano solo starts Journey Beyond, another stylish track hallmarked by ELP-like synthesisers and a dreamy ending. There is a stately air to concluding Instrumental Journey's End begins as it ends with chiming bells. Journey Beyond is a thoughtful and satisfying listen and you do wonder where Spirergy might be taking us next on its musical travels. **** Alison Reijman Where to buy? |
