CATALYST*R – Pace of Change (2024)
Alright, let’s dive into Pace of Change by CATALYST*R. Honestly, I almost noped out right at the start. When a band known for progressive rock kicks things off with a hard rock vibe, it’s an instant buzzkill for me. The album opener blasts off with hard rock, but hang tight, midway through, it morphs into something unexpectedly beautiful. Think piano, soft vocals, dreamy synths, acoustic guitars, and some soaring electric solos. It’s like a surprise gift wrapped in Marillion-esque vocals. Just as you’re getting lost in the magic, though, it jolts back to hard rock, which is a bit jarring.
“Dust Within The Seams” is where the album really starts to shine. The lead and harmony vocals are on point, and the spoken word segments add a nice touch. The track builds nicely, climaxing in a killer guitar solo with a Neoprog vibe that’s just fantastic.
Next up, “Ghosts On The Radio” leans heavily into the pop realm. It’s got that sing-along factor and is easily the most radio-friendly track here. If you’re looking for something catchy to hum along to, this is your jam.
The suite “Homesick” is a standout. It features engaging vocals, acoustic guitars, some sweet synth solos, and lush Mellotron layers, culminating in an epic guitar solo that feels straight out of David Gilmour’s playbook. Seriously, it’s one of the album’s best moments.
Then we hit “Unbroken,” another hard rocker with a beat that sticks.
The album’s other highlight is the excellent suite “Pendle Hill 1612.” Drawing from historical events, it offers a deeply satisfying journey with tranquil, cinematic passages and epic progressions.
Finally, we close with “We’ll Say Goodbye In The Rain,” an emotive ballad that pairs piano with heartfelt vocals.
So, while Pace of Change has its ups and downs, the highlights are definitely worth your time.
CATALYST*R are: Damien Child on vocals; Greg Pringle on drums; and Gary Jevon playing everything else.
Damien Child
Born in Manchester, Damien Child was influenced by progressive rock, glam, electronica, and northern soul. He began performing in South Africa before returning to the UK at eleven. Throughout his career, he has provided backing vocals for a chart-topping single, starred in BBC’s Waterfront Beat, and appeared in West End productions including March of the Falsettos and Miss Saigon. He has also collaborated with notable musicians and joined Tony Lowe’s ESP Project in 2018.
Gary Jevon
Raised in a musical family, Gary Jevon learned music from an early age, transitioning from brass instruments to guitar at thirteen after discovering Eddie Van Halen. Based in Leeds, Gary has played in various genres, including Britpop, metal, and progressive rock. A founding member of This Winter Machine, he contributed significantly to their award-winning album The Man Who Never Was. His influences include Steve Vai, Steve Rothery, and Steve Hackett.
Greg Pringle
Starting drums at five, Greg Pringle studied at Wells Cathedral School, the Royal College of Music, and Drumtech. Versatile in jazz, big band, western classical, and samba, Greg solidified his rock drummer status during the 2009 UK Theatre Tour of Quadrophenia. He has toured with Simon Townshend, Phil Spalding, and Tony Lowe, contributing to the ESP Project, where he met Damien Child. Greg also performs in theatre, including at the Young Vic.
Buy Pace of Change.