Electric Forgiveness – Original Score (Broken Sound Tapes, 2023)
Electric Forgiveness released their debut album titled Original Score in late 2023. This recording, spanning 43 minutes, features 11 continuous tracks designed to be experienced in one go, accompanied by a trusted companion and a Lava Lamp. It is a mind-bending, transfixing mix of psychedelia, electronica, experimental sounds and progressive rock.
The brainchild of Jon Dawson, founder of Third of Never, Electric Forgiveness started as a side project developed alongside John Bundrick. Dawson’s exploration of electronica took flight when circumstances at the House of Vibes in New Jersey led him to dive into this creative avenue. The album was shaped during a break in Third of Never’s recording schedule, with the infusion of synthesizer wizardry from the Korg Kasoscillator.
Notably, collaborations flowed between Electric Forgiveness and Third of Never, with vocal and instrumental contributions enriching both projects. The album includes Doug MacMillan of The Connells and Steve Kilbey of The Church. The skillful keyboard work by Steve Potak from The Connells shines, especially considering he tackled 90% of the keyboards in a single take without prior exposure to the tracks.
Sara Bell, renowned for her captivating voice and multi-instrumental talents, graces the album after a Third of Never session. Her eerie yet captivating vocals seamlessly intertwine with the project’s atmosphere. Drumming virtuoso Kurt Reil of the Grip Weeds delivers an exceptional performance that takes advantage of the music’s unconventional structure, allowing him to shine brilliantly for the entire 40-minute duration.
Adding melody to the sprawling soundscapes is bassist Michael Kelly, whose connection with Dawson stretches back over a decade. This union was sparked by a shared appreciation for music, making Kelly a natural fit for the project. The album is a joint effort by Broken Sound Tapes, 343 Records, and Jam Recordings, asvailable on CD, cassette, and digital formats.
The lineup of Electric Forgiveness includes Jon Dawson, John Bundrick, Sara Bell, Michael Kelly, Steve Potak, and Kurt Reil, with guest appearances by Doug MacMillan and Steve Kilbey.
Musicians: Sara Bell on vocals; John “Rabbit” Bundrick on keyboards, vocals; Jon Dawson on Korg synthesizer, guitar, low drums/bass; Michael Kelly on bass; Steve Potak on keyboards; Mellotron; and
Kurt Reil on drums.
Buy Original Score.