The Enid
Invicta (Operation Seraphim/Enidworks EWCD27, 2012)
Invicta is a Symphonic progressive rock masterpiece by the legendary The Enid. This veteran group has been making superb recordings where romantic English classical music is skillfully combined with state of the art progressive rock.
Although The Enid used to be an instrumental band featuring keyboards and guitars as lead instruments, the current incarnation of the band features vocals and they are truly outstanding. The vocalist is Joe Payne and he delivers a stellar performance beginning with the impressive falsetto performance in the opening piece, ‘Anthropy.’ His vocals morph amazingly throughout the album, ranging from solo work to harmonic vocals and choir-like effects, demonstrating that he is one of the finest vocalist in the international progressive rock scene.
At the helm of the band is composer and keyboard player Robert John Godfrey. He is a masterful orchestrator using a wide range or keyboards that create the sensation of a full symphony orchestra or large brass ensemble. The percussion sometimes leans towards the rock end of things while other times you listen to grand timpani straight out of a major symphony orchestra. The electric guitars and bass add the progressive rock component, making this group truly unique.
Normally I point out the highlights, but in this case it’s really difficult because the entire album is solidly good. Nevertheless, the dreamlike ‘Heaven’s Gate’ is one of the most beautiful symphonic rock pieces I’ve heard in years, with splendid guitar work along with Godfrey’s keyboard arrangements. A true delight.
The lineup on Invicta includes Robert John Godfrey on keyboards, Jason Ducker on guitars, Max Read on guitars and vocals, Dave Storey on drums and percussion, Nic Willes on bass and percussion, and Joe Payne on vocals.
Invicta is the 12th studio album from The Enid and marks the second volume in a planned trilogy of releases, building upon musical themes of its 2010 predecessor, Journey’s End. Invicta illustrates what humanity is able to achieve as a collective; celebrating greatness but nonetheless acknowledging opposing extremes. “Individually we are all alone but together we are invincible.”
The Enid self-finances its recordings with contributions from fans in advance. They started this strategy years ago, before online crowd financing became trendy.
Buy Invicta