Solstice, a British progressive rock band founded in 1980, has persevered through the decades and remains active as of 2023. Andy Glass, the band’s guitarist, has been a constant presence and the primary composer throughout its various incarnations.
Solstice prioritized live performances in its early years and did not release any recordings beyond the demo cassette “The Peace Tape” until 1984’s “Silent Dance.” The band’s lineup underwent frequent changes, with members like vocalists Sue Robinson and Shelly Patt departing after brief stints.
In 1993, Solstice made a comeback with “New Life,” featuring Heidi Kemp on vocals, Craig Sutherland on bass, and Pete Hemsley on drums.
Further changes occurred following “Circles,” released in 1997, which featured Emma Brown on vocals and Clive Bunker on drums. Steve McDaniels on keyboards, Rob Phillips on bass, and Jenny Newman on violin joined for later releases and live performances, including a 2002 studio recording of their Cropredy Festival set, released as “The Cropredy Set.”
Solstice experienced numerous hiatuses throughout its history, but in 2007, it resurfaced with a nearly unchanged lineup and the release of definitive editions of its four productions, including a live DVD attached to “The Cropredy Set.” Solstice’s legacy endures, a testament to the longevity of Glass’s vision and the band’s ability to adapt to the ever-changing music scene.
The band released a superb album titled “Sia” in 2020. The band found its true voice, thanks in part to new vocalist Jess Holland, whose soulful and enchanting performances breathe life into the stunning songs.
In addition to the creative renaissance, Solstice found a fitting label home in GEP, a company that not only appreciates and supports the music but also the audience. The label was founded as a platform for IQ, another British progressive rock band that shared early gigs with Solstice, making this partnership especially meaningful.
In 2022, Solstice released yet another masterful album titled “Light Up.”
(headline image: Solstice – photo by Phoenix)
Discography:
Silent Dance (Equinox Records, 1984)
New Life (Progressive International, 1992)
Circles (A New Day Records, 1997)
The Cropredy Set, live (A New Day Records, 2002)
Spirit (Festival Music, 2010)
Kindred Spirits, live (Festival Music, 2011)
Prophecy (Esoteric Antenna, 2013)
Sia (Giant Electric Pea, 2020)
Sia Live (2021)
Light Up (Giant Electric Pea, 2022)
Live in Veruno (2022)