Glass Hammer – Valkyrie (Arion Records / Sound Resources, 2016)
American band Glass Hammer has matured into one of the finest progressive rock bands in the current scene. On Valkyrie we find a mix of female and male vocals that provide a unique personality to the band’s sound.
The vocalists on Valkyrie are Susie Bogdanowicz who delivers the lead vocals along with Steve Babb and Fred Schendel who provide the background vocals, presenting a delightful combination of solo, harmony and eerie distant vocals.
On the instrumental side, Glass Hammer is a powerhouse. Valkyrie is a concept album about a soldier trapped in an endless war and the woman he left behind. What’s so satisfying about Glass Hammer is the fact that it plays straightforward epic symphonic progressive rock, without pandering to the metal and pop crowd. You’ll notice influences from the classics such as Genesis, ELP and Yes, along with more modern progressive bands, including Steven Wilson.
On some of the pieces, Glass Hammer has incorporated progressive jazz-rock fusion, electronics and effects, demonstrating that the band is forward-thinking and exciting.
The instrumentalists delight the listener throughout the album with beautifully-constructed arrangements featuring cathedral-style organs and string synths, along with memorable keyboard, bass and guitar solos supported by creative drumming.
The lineup includes Susie Bogdanowicz on lead and background vocals; Steve Babb on bass, keyboards, and background vocals; Fred Schendel on keyboards, guitars, and background vocals; Kamran Alan Shikoh on electric, acoustic, and classical guitars; and Aaron Raulston on drums.
Valkyrie is a truly excellent progressive rock album and a must have addition to your collection.
Buy Valkyrie