Although the Prog community tend to be a friendly and welcoming bunch I have found that all you have to do is speak to two of them and they will give you three definitions of what Prog is, or should be. They will then to go on to have a long discussion as to what bands they see as Prog.
Wikipedia is not much help with providing a solid definition and, on occasions, I have used the expression “Alexa, play Prog music” and in returns the tiny device starts to entertain me with what it seems to think is a Prog rock channel. However it always, without fails starts off with Queen, which could be a source of disagreement in the definition discussion, certainly if I am involved. Then it will play less contentious bands such as Pink Floyd and early Genesis before slipping in tracks by Neil Diamond, Johnny Cash and even ABBA. All good acts, in their own right, but I doubt that many people would ever want to stick their neck out and claim that they fit any definition of Prog Rock.
However, when it comes to Ghost of the Machine, I doubt that there would be many, if any, that would feel the need to disagree with the statement that they are not only most definitely Prog but also one of the finest exponents of the genre.
There first album, Scissorgames was a veritable tour de force that captured the attention of fans and critics alike, garnering them a reputation for quality musicianship that was reinforced by their mesmerizing stage show.
Thanks to touring, it might have taken them a couple of years to release the follow up but the new album, Empires Must Fall, proves that they have not been resting on their laurels. They have delivered music that, given time, deserves to achieve legendary status. A powerful claim that some might say is just fanatical hyperbole, but I challenge you to listen to the album and then, if you still do not agree, I would be happy to have a long discussion with you. Even if, by the end of that chat, we do not agree, I would hope that you had enjoyed the album.
So, what is it about Empires Must Fall that makes me make such august claims?
The album comprises of just six songs but what songs they are! Kicking off with Keepers of the Light it is a full on audio assault on the senses that, thanks to the deft keyboard skills of Mark Hagan, has a feel of a Fish era Marillion. This power is added to by the voice of Charlie Bramald the solid drumming of Andy Milner, firm bass from Stuart McAuley and searing guitars of Graham Garbett and additionally Scott Owen. The album starts where the previous album, Scissorgames, left off and this song doesn’t mess about with too much exposition before it picks up the story, taking the listener on fantastical and dramatic journey.
Next is The Days That Never Were. It has a more thoughtful start, but within 25 seconds that false sense of security is shattered as it continues with the musical workout. Maybe the session isn’t quite like going to the gym and you might not be left as sweaty but the adrenaline rush is similar. Clichés are dangerous, especially in album reviews, but there is texture of the song and lyrics that are simply beautiful. The second shortest song on the album but I wouldn’t have been too upset if it had lasted twice as long.
Then, just as I might think that it can’t maintain the pace and quality there is the song Panopticon. It is hard to nail my colours to the mast and say which is my favourite from the album but I am happy to say that, despite the tight race, this is it. The word describes a type of gaol where inmates can be seen at all times and the prisoners have no idea as to when they are being observed. That emotional impact is captured in the song, paranoia layered in many negative feeling that can drown a person’s soul. The concept album story continues making me identify with the dramatis personae. A metaphor for modern society? Perhaps.
But, thanks to the tension caused by the guitars on the intro of Fall Through Time, the power is, yet again, gently built up ready for Charlie to capture ears with an angst filled gaol, a desperate affirmation that the hero will overcome and beat the ‘Empire’. But it isn’t all about the voice. The rest of the band provide their skill and talent to ensure that 12 minutes of the song are filled with race well won.
Then, we come to the penultimate, and shortest, track on the album, The One. But do not worry, just because it is less than five minutes long it doesn’t mean that they sold out to any pop sensibilities, dancing might not be allowed in Prog but you’ll be tapping your feet in appreciation. It is a sort of love song, but listen to the lyrics and you’ll realise that there is a fine line between love and hate. Bitterness and pain delivered with a hint of compassion and hope. All given extra panache by Mark Hagan’s clever and imaginative keyboard playing.
Finally there is the longest track on the album, After the War. It would be too easy to say that the title says it all, as the denouement is more complex than that. The Empire has finally fallen but was the victory pyrrhic? The hero has changed on the journey and is left with doubts that what has arrived will be better that what was, but a hope for a rebuilt world that will not repeat the past. An uncertain path but one where you are not alone.
There you have it, my take on what I see as one of not only one of the best Prog albums in quite a few years but also, quite possibly, the best album, full stop. But why take my word for it? Go and give it a listen. And, if you don’t think it is Prog, there is always ABBA for you.
TRACK LISTING
01. Keepers Of The Light (8:35)
02. The Days That Never Were (5:59)
03. Panopticon (11:44)
04. Fall Through Time (12:00)
05. The One (4:43)
06. After The War (14:32)
Total Time – 57:33
MUSICIANS
Charlie Bramald – Lead Vocals, Flute
Graham Garbett – Guitars, Backing Vocals
Mark Hagan – Keyboards
Stuart McAuley – Bass
Andy Milner – Drums
Scott Owens – Guitars
ADDITIONAL INFO
Record Label: ProgRock.Com’s Essentials
Country of Origin: UK
Date of Release: 7th March 2025
LINKS
Ghost Of The Machine – Website | Facebook | Bandcamp | YouTube | X | Instagram
