In the week that Bandcamp was hailed as 'The Holy Grail of Online Music Stores' by The New York Times, all five albums are available via the online music site known for its equitable treatment of artists.
If you like what you hear, please support the band by buying the disc, to ensure they can continue to bring you Something For The Weekend! And please do let us know if you discover something you enjoy.
Published 22nd August 2016
1: AISLES - Hawaii
Country: Chile
Sub-genre: Funky jazzy progressive rock
Description: Now into the second decade of their career, one of South America's premier progressive rock bands return with album number four - a double concept album. For those who enjoy a heavy mix of fusion with their classic prog, this album will be a delight. There is good variety, with some lovely details which shine through the crystal-clear production. Catch them on tour in Europe (UK, Belgium, France, Netherlands, Germany) this October.
Listen to it now: Full Album on Bandcamp or Full album on Progstreaming
More Information: Artist websiteListen to it now: Full Album on Bandcamp or Full album on Progstreaming
2: AKORD - Ethereality
Country: UK
Sub-genre: Progressive heavy rock
Description: Based on Carry The Sound, the debut EP from this Aberdeen-based band,dprp asked its readers to join the crowd funding for this debut full album. The outcome is better than expected and the boys have delivered an album full of experimental heavy and grungy rock. The song-writing is just perfect, and the true-to-the-mic production makes many of the modern, over-produced bands seem like the audio equivalent of a flat beer. Aperture, followed by Upon Reflection are my favourites, because one can hear the smiles of joy while the band was playing this complicated stuff!
Listen to it now: Listen to the album on Bandcamp
More Information: Artist on FacebookListen to it now: Listen to the album on Bandcamp
3: DEUS EX MACHINA - Devoto
Country: Italy
Sub-genre: Eclectic jazz-rock
Description: After an eight-year hiatus, the Bologna-based sextet led by vocalist extraordinaire Alberto Piras are back with their seventh studio album. Though more streamlined than its predecessors (and lacking the band’s trademark Latin lyrics), Devoto features the band’s highly individual, visceral take on jazz-rock – reminiscent of Seventies masters Area, infused with Mediterranean warmth and a subtle retro vibe.
Listen to it now: Album on Bandcamp
More Information: Artist website
4: JELLYHEAD - Jellyhead
Country: Argentina
Sub-genre: Ambient stoner rock
Description: No tango! Go for stoner rock from Argentina. Laid back and intense. This band from Argentina really knows how to produce the right vibe with this collection of haunting instrumentals with restrained vocals. This is written, played and recorded with lots of love, with eight fantastic tracks, all with a different approach. The song Bólido tops it. Take your time, lock yourself up for a while, and dream away in wonderful soundscapes.
Listen to it now: Full album on Bandcamp
More Information: Artist on Facebook
5: ARCTIC SLEEP- Passage of Gaia
Country: USA
Sub-genre: Progressive, atmospheric doom
Description: One of the best things about Bandcamp is the ability to take a plunge and trust the good taste of fellow fans. A search for the best selling bands with a 'progressive rock' tag unveiled this little gem. This sixth album from Milwaukee duo Keith D and Mike Gussis was actually released two years ago, so I guess there are quite a few others who are just discovering its powerful twist on melodic doom with a technical and progressive bent.
Listen to it now: Full album on Bandcamp
More Information: Artist website