Ode to Echo (Sound Resource SR3324, 2014)
Yet again, Glass Hammer delivers a superb album of straight ahead progressive symphonic rock. Ode to Echo contains lots of exciting elements on the instrumental and vocal side. Although Glass Hammer’s sound is inspired by Yes, Gentle Giant, ELP and other seminal progressive rock bands, during the course of the past years the band has developed its own style, characterized by skilled musicianship of Alan Shikoh, Steve Babb, and Fred Schendel and outstanding lead and backing vocalists.
Ode to Echo features four top-notch lead vocalists: Carl Groves, Jon Davison, Susie Bogdanowicz, and Walter Moore. These great artists have been involved with Glass Hammer throughout its history so it’s a treat to have them all together in one album.
The new album is consistently good. The highlights of Ode to Echo include the suite ‘Misantrog,’ the epic ‘Crowbone’ that features superb guitars, keyboards, vocals and the guest appearance of David Ragsdale (Kansas) on violin; ‘I Am I,’ where Glass Hammer brilliantly combines prog rock with jazz elements; and the closing piece ‘Ozymandias.’
Ode to Echo features a new drummer, Aaron Raulston, who delivers a stellar performance, creating a solid rhythm section, counterpoints, and at times unexpected time signatures along with bassist Steve Babb.
The complete Ode to Echo lineup includes Carl Groves on lead vocals; Jon Davison on lead vocals; Susie Bogdanowicz on lead vocals; Alan Shikoh on electric and acoustic guitars, electric sitar; Steve Babb on bass, keyboards, backing vocals; Fred Schendel on keyboards, steel guitar, backing vocals; Aaron Raulston on drums. Guests: Walter Moore on lead vocals; Michelle Young on backing vocals; Randy Jackson (Zebra) on guitar; Rob Reed (Magenta) on keyboards; and David Ragsdale on violin.
The cover and twelve page CD booklet features beautiful artwork by Michal ‘Xaay’ Loranc.
Ode to Echo is a splendid progressive rock album with an epic atmosphere, sumptuous keyboard textures, gorgeous instrumental solos, and memorable vocals and harmonies.
Buy Ode to Echo in North America
Buy Ode to Echo in Europe