Solstice – Clann (Progrock.com Essentials, 2025)
With Clann, their eighth studio release, the venerable British progressive rock band Solstice gracefully bridges the band’s prog-rock roots with more accessible, song-oriented material.
From the outset, Solstice wastes no time reasserting their strengths. The opening track, “Firefly” (06:23), is a jubilant burst of classic prog, layered with buoyant choruses, glittering synth flourishes, supple bass lines, and a searing signature electric guitar solo from founding guitarist Andy Glass. The track is an ideal curtain-raiser: energetic and immediately engaging.
However, the band quickly veers into more song-centric terrain. The following track, “Life” (06:33), retains traces of progressive DNA but trades complexity for warmth. Anchored by elegant fiddle, the track radiates joy and immediacy. It’s accessible without being shallow, a balance Solstice handles with veteran ease.
Then comes “Plunk” (05:26), a sharp departure. Here, the band dives into funk-infused pop, with mixed results. While the groove is undeniable and the vocal hooks are plentiful, the track feels like a detour rather than a destination. Still, Andy Glass salvages the moment with a memorable guitar solo that briefly re-centers the band’s musical identity.
The funk flavor continues with “Frippa”, a track that succeeds where “Plunk” stumbles. The fiddling returns with flair, and the guitar work scorches through the mix, injecting the track with much-needed intensity. Though still rooted in pop sensibility, “Frippa” carries more weight thanks to its instrumental vigor.
Midway through, the album takes a dramatic and welcome turn. “Twin Peaks” (13:49) marks a full return to progressive form. Clocking in at nearly fourteen minutes, the piece unfolds in movements, shifting from muscular passages to ambient interludes. The vocal performance here is arguably the album’s strongest, and the electronic midsection adds a new dimension to the band’s sound. Once again, Glass’s guitar solo anchors the piece with virtuosity, clarity, and passion.
Finally, the band closes with “Earthsong 2025” (07:11), a precious and beautiful reimagined version of their classic. Rather than a nostalgic retread, the track feels refreshed, imbued with delicate vocals, delightful fiddle work, and brilliant, yet subtle guitar performances.
Musicians: Andy Glass on guitars; Jess Holland on vocals; Jenny Newman on fiddle; Peter Hemsley on drums; Steven McDaniel on keyboards; Robin Phillips on bass; Ebony Buckle on backing vocals; Dyane Crutcher on backing vocals; and Rick Burns on backing vocals.
Clann tour
April 9th – Southampton
April 10th – Cardiff
April 11th – Nottingham
April 12th – Huddersfield
April 13th – Sheffield
April 17th – Colchester
April 18th – Milton Keynes
April 20th – London
Buy Clann.