SOUTHERN EMPIRE

Antipodean proggers drop a slab of sunshine.

Even in the world of prog, it’s a bold band that dare to release an album comprising a mere four tracks. Part of the brilliance of Australia’s Southern Empire, however, is their willingness to go where others fear to tread. With only four songs, though, cynics might suggest that this follow-up to 2016’s eponymous debut could do with a little more shaping. They would be wrong. If the debut was crisp and appealing, Civilization is joyous, wild and delightful. Opener Goliath’s Moon combines the sophistication of Transatlantic with the pop metal hooks of David Coverdale at his most winsome. The harmony work between lead vocalist Danny Lopresto and the rest of the band is luscious and, hell, can Cam Blokland wrangle a guitar. Cries For the

Lonely supplies a feast of cosmic keyboards courtesy of Sean Timms, but for sheer ambition, look no further than the 30-minute Crossroads. Combining jazz, spooky metal and catchy hooks, it’s a giant statement of intent. This is prog unafraid of grooviness and sweet melody, and fans of the techier end of the spectrum should take note: Southern Empire show how to be both clever and melodic. They deserve a wide audience.