Back in April 2023 I gave a qualified thumbs up to Random Earth Project’s debut release Airwaves. I felt at the time that if the band could channel its energy into playing to its strengths, then the they would have every chance of future success. The quality of songs on Airwaves, was, in my opinion, inconsistent and the signature sound of the band was buried beneath too wide a range of influences. Having said that, in parts it was excellent, so I am intrigued to see how the last few years has played out, and to hear how the new album sounds.
I am mightily relieved to say that Changes is the complete package for any melodic/neo-prog fan. Now I am not saying you must rush out and buy this album (although hopefully some of you will) because this is a band still learning its trade after all, but the main album consisting of six tracks is a textbook collection of progressive themes, melodies and rhythms. The musicianship is first class, the three core band members are supplemented with outstanding guests, and the production is clean, doing full justice to the song-writing.
Whereas Airwaves felt a bit forced and incoherent, Changes feels natural and it flows beautifully across the 52 minutes playing time. It’s a classic prog album that holds your attention all the way as the full story unfolds. Random Earth Project have stamped their identity all through this album and this time the overtly recognisable influences and musical tropes that occasionally appear are used to enhance the band’s own sound, and in this context are much more forgivable.
So, what does a textbook prog collection look like now, in 2025? 17-minute three-part epic? Tick. Atmospheric, slow-burner leading to heavy drums and bass and a soaring guitar solo? Tick. Beatle-esque biographical story of anguished artist’s life on the stage, with an introduction of an orchestra tuning up? Tick. Jazz-tinted instrumental with epic sax solo? Tick. 12-minute, melodic, funky guitar and synth extravaganza? Tick. Anthemic, neo-prog, radio-friendly single? Tick.
Rather than describe each song in detail, I’ll pick out some highlights, because the really interesting part of this review process has been teasing out the Random Earth Project sound, amongst all the general prog-iness.
The second part of Changes features a simple synth melody that circles round on itself with some attention-grabbing variations. It’s metronomic but also hypnotic and it’s a highlight for me just because I like that sort of thing. There is lots of philosophising in the lyrics that are delivered with no lack of passion and soul by Kym Blackman. The complete track is bookended by organ solos, which is a nice touch, and whilst the three parts are distinct in style the interweaving of musical and lyrical themes ties it all together.
Kim Cypher, a highly respected jazz musician based in the UK, is the guest saxophonist on Hotel providing an inspired, absorbing, and frankly spine-tingling solo. This one is worth the admission fee on its own, as they say.
Also fitting that bill is Game-Gates, which is the guitar and synth extravaganza spoken of previously. It’s a multi-faceted piece where instrumental breaks take their turn adding colour and vibrancy to a dynamic groove. The second half, Gates, has the feel of a track like The Lizard King by Magenta, plenty of punchy phrasing and rhythmic twists and turns.
Running through the album is Kym Blackman’s vocal delivery, which is most reminiscent of David Bowie in his later (say, Blackstar) years. I think on this album, compared to Airwaves, he has found a natural, story-telling style that suits him well and allows him plenty of scope and range for expressing emotion.
I should declare that I am really more interested in modern day bands that look forward rather than back, with a preference for invention rather than emulation, but for Random Earth Project and Changes I am happy to make an exception and declare that this is a well-crafted, well-executed and well, fun, prog album that ticks all the right boxes.
For the completists amongst you, track 7, Christmas Song, is exactly what it says on the tin, it’s a bonus track in effect, and quite obviously not part 7 of the story of Changes. Feel free to unwrap that one as well if you so wish.
TRACK LISTING
01. Changes (16:28)
02. Cry (6:38)
03. All Told (5:36)
04. Hotel (5:02)
05. Game-Gates (12:28)
06. MojoKing (5:01)
07. Christmas Song (4:17)
Total Time – 56:07
MUSICIANS
Carleton Van Selman – Keyboards
Kym Blackman – Vocals
Trev Turley – Bass
~ With:
Glen Buck – Drums
Andrew Walker – Guitar (2)
Amanda Lehmann – Guitar (3)
Kim Cypher – Soprano Saxophone (4)
Owen Barry – Guitar (5)
Mark Howes – Guitar (5 & 6)
ADDITIONAL INFO
Record Label: Independent
Country of Origin: UK
Date of Release: 8th January 2025
