
The New Caledonia: Lotus
By Peter Dent
I was blown away by this debut from the progressive rock band ex-of Hamilton and now based in Australia. These four versatile and talented chaps have forged an amazing collection of technical but melodic pieces - long on chops and big on fun interplay. The album was recorded, mixed and mastered by bassist Michael Tayler at Dudley Studios, and he's done a super job. There are a myriad of interesting sound textures that Tayler's had to contend with and the drum sound is sublime. Fagan Wilcox leads the band into musical battle with vocals, guitar, keyboards and a really refined sax technique. Timon Martin (guitar and vox), Stan Bicknell (drums) and Tayler complete the group. Props to all personnel for their instrumental prowess, but I'd give the MVP to Bicknell for his mastery of odd-time grooves, catching accents and generally kicking TNC in the butt! Bicknell's the one member who hasn't relocated and now drums in 48May. There is just so much to listen to at any one time with this album - it takes repeated listens to truly appreciate this excellent work. Progressive rock fans rejoice!
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