Hawkestrel – Chaos Rocks (Cleopatra Records, 2024)
Hawkestrel is a project led by former Hawkwind bassist Alan Davey. Chaos Rocks, deeply rooted in the essence of Hawkwind’s legacy, welcomes notable collaborators such as Nik Turner, Bob Calvert, Simon House, Mick Slattery, and Huw Lloyd-Langton.
Chaos Rocks offers a diverse mix of progressive and psychedelic rock, alongside hard-hitting tracks. Personally, my appreciation leans towards the progressive spectrum, where trance-infused electronic elements intertwine with psychedelic progressive rock.
Standout tracks include the mesmerizing “Near Earth Asteroid,” the cosmic journey of “Kinnikinnick Special,” the enchanting “Walking the Wheel,” and the hypnotic “Opa Loka” featuring stellar Mellotron arrangements and trance-inducing beats. Closing the album, “Dangerous Visions” evokes the classic, epic aura of 1970s progressive rock, complemented by the exceptional vocals of Danny Faulkner.
While the album offers a variety of musical flavors, the harder rock-oriented tracks may hold less appeal to some listeners, myself included.
In addition to familiar rock musicians, the album also features William Shatner, who is a great progressive rock fan, on vocals.
Musicians: Alan Davey on synths, sequencers, bass, rhythm guitar, piano, Mellotron, jaw harp, effects, drums, vocals; Mick Taylor on lead guitar; Bob Calvert on vocals; Helios Creed on lead guitar; Carmine Appice on drums; Vocals – William Shatner on vocals; Nico Leophonte on drums; Rhythm Guitar, Mick Slattery on lead and rhythm guitar; Nik Turner on saxophone; Simon House on violin; Huw Lloyd-Langton on lead guitar; Adam Hamilton on drums; Geoff Downes on Mellotron and lead guitar; Ginger Baker on drums; and Danny Faulkner on vocals.
Buy Chaos Rocks.