BOSS KELOID
Family The Smiling Thrush RIPPLE MUSIC
Wigan’s progressive rockers open up a box of new wonders
OVER THE LAST decade, Wigan riff-wielders Boss Keloid have earned a formidable reputation for raising the bar with each new release. Family The Smiling Thrush, their fifth full-length doesn’t just cement their status for consistently taking things up another level, however, it could potentially change the game entirely. Marking yet another evolution in sound, the Good Ship Keloid has set sail for even proggier waters in the wake of the success of 2018’s sprawling Melted On The Inch. It’s an ambitious, exhilarating opus that delivers countless eargasms over the course of seven tracks.
The spectre of Peter Gabriel-era Genesis and King Crimson looms over much of the material as the four-piece explore themes of family, personal growth, mindfulness and more. At times euphoric (Flatt Controller), Family The Smiling Thrush is both a showcase for Boss Keloid’s impeccable musicianship and, more importantly, a ray of light during these draconian times.
Bombastic, beautiful and boasting a wealth of brain-frying grooves, the likes of the labyrinthine opener Orang Of Noyn and the fiendishly catchy Gentle Clovis are sure to be set staples for a long time to come.
Recent single Smiling Thrush is their best recorded moment to date. Featuring lyrics penned by guitarist Paul Swarbrick, the song reflects on his relationship with his father, who sadly passed away last year. Heartbreaking and heroic, musically it owes a debt to Zeppelin and Soundgarden and rewards with repeat plays. It’s a big moment for the band and could earn them a whole new audience.
Sure to be dissected and discussed by fans old and new for many years to come,
Family The Smiling Thrush is a monster of a record. You don’t need a crystal ball to predict that this will be one of the albums of the year.
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FOR FANS OF: Neurosis, Elder, King Crimson EDWIN MCFEE