AlphaLine – Electromagnetic | Progressive Rock Central.com

AlphaLine is out with their debut album, Electromagnetic, which was released last July, but is worthy for review whenever, because of the distinct quality of this jazzy, progressive rock album. Red Lantern Records released the album.

The Surrey/Berks, UK band, includes members: Caroline Yardley, lead vocals and lyrics; Stuart Crawford-Browne, on guitar, production, and keyboards; Anne Emmerson, on bass and vision; and Aaron Cilia, on drums and production. Joshua Rose was a former drummer for the band, from 2022 to 2025.

AlphaLine plays a diverse musical style, which blends influences from trip hop, jazz, funk, ambient electronica, progressive rock, and alternative psychedelic rock. The band won the “Best Indie Rock Band at the Radio Wigwam Music Awards.” They were also named the “Best Newcomer Band at the GSMC Music Awards!”

“Flatlining,” opens the album with soft keyboards, programming, drumming, and percussion sounds. The music has a definite ‘80s new wave vibe to it. Maybe some early Peter Gabriel solo work, sounds from the early ‘80s. Caroline Yardley, who sounds a little like Ann Wilson of Heart, sings, “If today is a good day. Where do we go from here?” The punching drums and stomping beat of the rhythm is solid and marching. Caroline Yardley, sings, “Won’t somebody help me?” I’m reminded of the sounds of Mike Rutherford or Tony Bank’s solo work, from the ‘80s as well. Good music, but it is Caroline Yardley’s voice which carries the day, with this band. Yes, “Just breathe,” when you are flatlining, or feeling down or almost out. Even their name and the lettering on the cover of the album look 1980s, ’90s.

“Kind as Strangers,” opens with drums and percussion, supported well with keyboards, then electric guitar. More of those great ‘80s sounds, like so many solo albums from some of my favorite bands’ members. Good, soft beats and music to go out and have fun with friends.

“Billy and the Infinite Madness,” has just got to be a tribute to Billy Corgan and the Smashing Pumpkins; who created a wonderful double album, “Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness.” I love that album, and the play on words Caroline Yardley includes in her lyrics are a wonderful tribute to the Pumpkins’ most famous album. The song even begins with a similar melody to “1979.” A great song about going back in time to a place and music that I and maybe they love. Some of those cool guitar riffs remind me of Billy C’s. Good stuff. One of the best songs on the album.

“Samuel,” is a sad sort of love song, full of deep memories. Great electric guitar playing, despite the sadness in the song. A real tough love song and Caroline Yardley, sings with so much passion and emotion.

“White Fire,” opens with very cool lead electric guitar riffs and bass playing. Caroline Yardley, sings, “And if it hurts sometimes. I’m with you. Arms open wide.” A song about consoling friends in difficult times. A very cool musical vibe here, sounding a little like some of my ‘80s and ‘90s favorites, the Chameleons, The Mission, or at times, even The Tea Party. A good mixture of their sounds, only this time with a lovely female voice in the lead. Best song on the album, so far.

“Dual,” has a tough sound to it, and with that title you might expect it. The lead electric guitar at the opening builds the melody as Caroline Yardley, sings, “I go down with an angel in disguise. You can’t hide. You can’t lie.” Great electric guitar playing throughout this track.

“Release,” is another great ‘80s style rocker, full of guitar energy and Caroline Yardley’s vocals.

“What U Gonna Do,” opens with cool keyboard sounds reminiscent of Larry Fast, Devo, and Kraftwerk. It is followed by groovy bass that will take you back to the soul music of the ‘60s. Even Caroline Yardley’s voice sounds a little like Annie Lennox of the Eurythmics; when she tried to bring back to life the sounds of the cool soul of the ‘60s. A great song wrapped in the music of history. It helps explain why this band has won so many accolades and awards. The lead guitar playing of Stuart Crawford-Browne, and his keyboard playing, is truly worth seeing live.

“Paper Cups,” opens with Caroline Yardley singing, “I don’t need pills to get my thrills. I’ve had my fill of paper cups. They gonna pay.” Great electric guitar playing ensues, along with great drum and bass support.

“Deluded,” is full of cool electric guitar fuzz and synthesized keyboards. But a tough, break-up song, lyrically.

“White Fire (Instrumental),” Is a very cool, over 4-minute lead electric guitar, bass and soft drum instrumental. Very cool Middle Eastern vibes run through this excellent, well-constructed soundscape.

“What U Gonna Do (DJ 12-inch remix),” is an almost disco sounding, danceable version of the song discussed earlier. Put on your dance shoes and enjoy this wonderful throwback song.

AlphaLine’s Electromagnetic vibe was a wonderful surprise that brings back so many great memories for me. If you weren’t around back in the “New Wave,” invasion of the 1980s, perfect; it will all sound new to you. This music will move you and get your attention. You can even dance to some of this music, and the band is listed under the progressive rock genre. Above all, AlphaLine’s Electromagnetic, is an album of fun. Which lately, there have not been enough albums of fun. We need more. I remember the great music from the “New Wave,” of the 1980s; that took most of our minds off of the fact that George Bush was President, and Margaret Thatcher was Prime Minister. Maybe Electromagnetic, will do the same for you, if you give it a chance. This is great music made with care. Don’t get “Hyperactive,” like Thomas Dolby sang, get Electromagnetic, with AlphaLine!

Album Track List: