“We Are Now” is the second album from Welsh progressive rock band C-sides.
Produced, recorded and mixed by the four‐piece band at Martin Rosser’s new studio, the album follows on from their debut album Devitrification, which was released in 2011. Guitarist Martin Rosser (ex-Magenta), bassist Jay MacDonald (Sankara) and drummer Allan Mason‐Jones (ex-Magenta) were responsible for the music, while vocalist Allen McCarthy penned the lyrics.
Musically the album reflects an eclectic range of influences, ranging from 70s stalwarts Yes (especially the 90125 era of the band) and Gentle Giant via Rush – particularly their 80s incarnation when synthesizers were an important part of their sound – towards modern progressive bands like Mew. While not a concept album, Allen has created lyrical themes throughout the individual songs that link them together to form a larger body of work. The band believe that strong melodies are key to a successful song. The vocal melodies and harmonies present on the new album belie the sometimes challenging and complex musical arrangements that underpin them. We Are Now is an album that rewards the listener, as repeated plays reveal the rich texture, changing time signatures and instrumental ability of the band.
The album can be bought from: https://csides1.bandcamp.com/releases
