The Prog Collective – Dark Encounters (Purple Pyramid, 2024)
The latest release from The Prog Collective, titled Dark Encounters, marks a notable evolution in the band’s sound. This album maintains the collaborative spirit of the group, featuring contributions by renowned progressive rock musicians like Steve Morse, David Cross, Patrick Moraz, Kasim Sulton, and Steve Hillage, alongside top artists from the broader rock and metal genres.
Dark Encounters signifies a deliberate departure towards a more introspective and melancholic musical direction, characterized by evocative ambience and ghostly melodic passages. It serves as a compelling exploration into the darker realms of progressive rock. While previous albums by The Prog Collective have drawn some criticism for leaning towards AOR (Album-Oriented Rock), this release stands out as a definitive example of authentic, meticulously crafted progressive rock. The album features stellar performances and represents some of Billy Sherwood’s most compelling work in recent years.
One of the album’s highlights is a single highlighting the talent of guitar hero Steve Stevens. Known for his work with Billy Idol, Stevens is celebrated for his ability to craft powerful, electrifying rock melodies with mainstream appeal. His collaboration on Dark Encounters presents both his melodic sensibility and technical skill.
The bonus tracks don’t offer much. They belong in the pop category and have little connection with the overall theme of the album.
Founded and led by producer/multi-instrumentalist Billy Sherwood, well-known bassist for Yes, The Prog Collective has been a unifying force for musicians across various genres since its inception in 2012.
Track List:
- Darkest Hour with Steve Stevens
- Ominous Signs with Steve Morse
- At The Gates with David Cross
- Dark Days with Ron “Bumblefoot” Thal, Patrick Moraz & Omar Hakim
- Lonely Landscape with Kasim Sulton
- The Long Night with Frank Dimino & Marco Minnemann
- The Quasi Effect with Billy Sherwood
- The 11th Hour with John Etheridge
- Between Two Worlds with Steve Hillage & Gregg Bissonette
- Distant Thunder with Todd Sucherman
- Dark Money with Joe Bouchard
- For All To See with Pat Mastelotto
- Beyond Reason with Chad Wackerman
BONUS TRACKS [CD ONLY] - I Saw the Light – Todd Rundgren with Rick Wakeman
- I’m Not In Love – Nektar with Rick Wakeman
Buy Dark Encounters