EBB – Mirror (Boudicca Records, 2025)
EBB has matured into of the finest progressive rock bands in the current UK scene. Mirror reflects the moment where their ambition, discipline, and eccentricity line up effectively.
“Evenfall” sets the tone with a charming neoclassical piano that supports beautifully constructed vocals. “Reason” shifts abruptly into high-voltage mode. Drums drive the track forward, piano and keyboards weave in and out, and the guitars cut through with confidence. The song develops with a convincing balance of intensity and space, with memorable guitar and piano solo work.
“No One’s Child” nods toward the spectral drama of classic Pink Floyd. Sound effects give way to an eloquent conversation between piano, synth, bass, and drums. The almost entirely instrumental design lets the band’s instrumentalists shine, with extended piano and electric guitar passages that build towards an impressive climactic fusion of guitar, synth, and piano.
The title track, “The Mirror” provides a gentle opening for piano, bass, and fervent vocals that gradually uncoils into a long-form piece that moves through hushed passages, concentrated instrumental dialogues, and a sweeping finale.
“That’s How It Goes” introduces organ and strummed guitars that hint at classic rock, then nudges the arrangement into more exploratory territory. Synths step into the spotlight, working closely with the bass to develop shifts in mood. The track closes with one of the album’s most satisfying endings.
“Cuckoo” leans into atmosphere. Synth and flute engage in an elegant dialogue over gentle drums while the electric guitar ascends into a soaring solo. Whispered vocals add an unsettling edge that suits the piece.
“Take To The Stars” opens with Mellotron and synth lines that hover like a distant signal before guitar and further electronics respond. The central folk-rock passage introduces a different shade of storytelling, and the vocals carry it with warmth. A final exchange between synth and guitars ties the track together with taste.
“Day 19” brings one of the record’s boldest contrasts: lyrical flute and synth against harder-edged guitars. The band layers piano and synth as the piece escalates, then steers into a finale of hazy flute, vocals, psychedelic guitars, and a burst of theatricality, complete with unhinged laughter.
“Geneva” serves as a thoughtful epilogue. Acoustic guitar and voice recall folk traditions before the arrangement swells into a vigorous section driven by drums, electric guitars, and agile synth solos.
With Mirror, EBB delivers a progressive rock album that respects tradition and pushes forward with quiet confidence.
Musicians: Anna Fraser on drums, percussion; Nikki Francis on piano, Hammond organ, synths, flute, saxophone, and clarinet; Bad Dog on bass; Kitty Bisquits on backing vocals, percussion, spoken words; Suna Dasi on backing vocals, synths; and Erin Bennett on guitars, lead vocals, trumpet.