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Published 21st June 2016
1: HEAVEN'S CRY - Outcast
Country: Canada
Sub-genre: Progressive metal
Description: Prolific is not a word you could ever apply to this quartet from Montreal. But their four albums in 20 years have been very much a case of quality over quantity. Based around a concept of political struggle, Outcast offers seven songs anchored around the impressive 15-minute epic that is The Day The System Failed. The superb twin lead vocals have long been a hallmark of this band along with a ever-changing, interwoven template of technical musical complexity that is nor afraid to mix the heavy shades with the lighter ones. Definitely an album you need to spend some time with.
Listen to it now: Full album streaming on Bandcamp
More Information: Artist website
2: UKANDANZ - Awo
Country: France/Ethiopia
Sub-genre: World / Avant-Prog
Description: With members hailing from Ethiopia and France, Ukandanz are purveyors of some of the most exciting new music available under the all-encompassing “progressive” label. Driven by Asnake Guebreyes’ unique vocal style, the band’s second album, Awo, combines Ethiopia’s diverse musical tradition with rock, jazz and other influences in a thoroughly modern approach to Avant-Prog. Highly recommended to adventurous listeners.
Listen to it now: Full album streaming on Bandcamp
More Information: Artist website
3: ELEPHANTS OF SCOTLAND - The Perfect Map
Country: USA
Sub-genre: Soft progressive rock
Description: This is only the third studio album from Elephants of Scotland, who hail from Vermont, but have only existed since 2010. Full of gentle and polished compositions and instrumentation, I think this new album is really quite amazing. Expect serious, yet frank stuff, that is especially bright and merry. For those that know Moon Safari, think a bit in that direction. Maybe even better, with a tad more depth.
Listen to it now: Full album streaming on Bandcamp
More Information: Artist on Facebook
4: AFTER RAIN- Tabula Rasa
Country: Portugal
Sub-genre: Post prog
Description: Lovely, unwinding post-prog/post-rock instrumental intricacy, with occasional subtle hints of heaviosity from this guitar/keyboards, bass, drums Portuguese trio, augmented by guest musicians on several tracks. A "Name Your Price", too!
Listen to it now: Full album streaming on Bandcamp
More Information: Artist on Facebook
5: THE LIFTS - Everyday
Country: Canada
Sub-genre: Progressive bluesy art rock
Description: Some great cover art should tempt one to discover the debut (mini) album from this inventive trio that hails from Toronto (the Name Your Price download adds another carrot!). Built on a foundation of tasty blues, Gabriel, Konstantine and Daniel add in jazz, prog, rock, psychedelia, funk and a touch of art rock to create a very enjoyable collection of melodic moments. The Lifts are able to rock and chill out - often in the same cadenza. A very impressive debut.
Listen to it now: Full album streaming on Bandcamp
More Information: Artist websiteListen to it now: Full album streaming on Bandcamp