Dutch composer and multi-instrumentalist Ruud Dielen unleashes another thrilling album, progressing now into the upper echelons of quality prog, as this is a standout release that had me smiling all the way through. Ably assisted in the task, bassist Tim Ros and drummer Kike Paglia man the rhythm section with authority, introducing three vocalists into the process, Frank van der Borg and Jyoti Verhoeff on lead and backing while Ties van Diesen on backing duties. Harrie Knapen adds Hammond and piano, Thomas Zunk with theremin and mellotron and sax player Reg Parham completing the line-up.
The progression is obvious from the first note, as the album unleashes a snarling five-part title track opus that revs on all cylinders like a well-oiled machine. All the ingredients are in place, from an extended electronic introduction that seems to float above the clouds , settling the sonic groundwork into a comfortable zone. The mighty mellotron shows its impeccable grandeur in creating the symphonic mood that it manages so well. On “Part 2: Carrying the Yoke”, the arrangement opens up the throttle in a more conventional neo-prog setting, laden with sharper tones, coarse guitar interventions and bombastic keyboard sweeps that elevate the vocals, at times gentle and then more forceful. Veering into more fleecier realms, where ethereal vocalizations (Jyoti) rule the heavens, “Part 3: Into the Clouds” showcases Ruud playing a rolling fretless undertow that hits the mark, thumping drum attack, as the tempo increases into a fiery hurricane of interweaving sounds. The splendid lead guitar work portrays a diversity that oozes class. Another brief instrumental bridge only adds even more pace and drama to the entire opus, setting the stage for another swift turn into the unexpected. “Part 5: Chaotic Spell” swerves into more intricate signatures, a demanding almost Zappa-esque escapade with bold jazz-rock tendencies, a platform for some delirious saxophone ramblings (Parham) and lead guitar forays that exude utter confidence. The drums flutter with a maddening splurge that defies the norms, propelling this finale with resolved expertise. Well done!
“If You Please” is an extended instrumental rocker, an opportunity for Ruud to exploit his talents on electric guitar, using a wide variety of tonal shifts, assorted pedals (including the much-beloved wah-wah pedal). At times, it felt like Hillage-era Gong mixed in with ZZ Top zaniness, perfectly egged on by a dynamic rhythmic engine. Well-dressed fish !
Brooding strings, a hint of theremin, distant organ and mellotron on “If I Only”, setting the table for an ominously sombre vocal ‘devoid of empathy’, both pleading their case with measured conviction. The biting guitar snarl heightening the theatrics, both rhythm shavings and lead flickers, the manic percussive attitude pervasive and threatening. Another excellent slice of prog rock.
Keeping the thrill vibrant, the tentacular keyboard display on “Whirlwinds & Maelstroms” does the trick, a piece where the mellotrons blaze, the extended Hammond organ eventually overtaking the mood with a thorough onslaught of gloomy thunder, enough room left for the acerbic guitar shards to cut hard and deep into the flesh. These boys know how to play. Masterclass effort.
The finale “Everything Must Break to Grow- Part 2 Reprise” surprises once again, as the female vocals (Jyoti and Ties) take over rather brilliantly in a vaporous premise, with huge harmony backing vocals, a dreamy soundscape floating in psychedelic karma. This turns into a rockier variation that shows plenty of backbone, as if the Legendary Pink Dots were the reference point, mostly evident on the voice effected final section with hallucinogenic tendencies that cannot be overlooked. Effing splendid, if I say so myself!
The entire project did not need to rely on any ‘elements of hope’ to succeed but rather was dependant on raw unadulterated talent, cohesion, inspiration and dedication to create interesting musical statements. The Glorious Wolf has truly arrived.
4.5 Cosmic hunters