CRUSHING TIME

How Do We Keep Going?

I had the impression throughout this impressive first full-length release from Chicago, Illinois-based NOMADIC HORIZON, that I was being beckoned into an existential journey, to be...or not to be.

Yes, HOW do we keep going. And WHY?

Lyricist/bassist/synthesizer-wielder/vocalist Tom Heslin delivers thought-provoking, dare I say 'spiritual' challenge as the backdrop to some ferocious heavy progressive music.

Crushing Time

Consider the numerous nuances of this title, which album incidentally folds in the four tracks from NOMADIC HORIZON's 2016 EP. Do we allow time to crush us- the burdens of illness, work stress, relationships, finances, imminent ruin from the pandemic currently ravaging the globe...

Or do we resolutely, with faith, with love crush and overcome and surmount the human construct of 'time'- and seek what is timeless, lovely, absolute?

Do Lyrics Matter?

To me, yes indeed. Does what we sing, say, tell, declare, and cry out- matter?

Today as I write this, for instance, here in the USA we witness a struggle, a confrontation between words/ideas/thoughts/speech/intentions of the heart.

Here, we celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day- a national holiday. Love, nonviolence, active nonresistance.

And we are forced to reckon with the hateful, prejudicial, violent, heedlessly supremacist rhetoric of certain all-too- loud voices in direct competition for our headspace.

NOMADIC HORIZON

This album presents a punchy, powerful package of compositions, drawing from heavy progressive rock precedents (I hear RUSH, BOSTON, and others), utilizing passion, precision, drama, texture, and polish to drive home their message.

There is the multi-dimensional work of guitarist Eric Gulbransen, who at times brings the heft of crunchy power chords, the jangle and sweetness of picked clean chords, searing lead lines, and deft interplay with violinist Chuck Bontrager.

Bontrager wields a seven-string violin (I've never seen one in action), with melodic clarity, yet also at times dueling with razor-sharp and intense lead lines intertwining with lead guitar, both as a double and sometimes a counterpoint.

Or soaring off into the rocking ozone as lead player extraordinaire.

Greg Rapp, current drummer, and Henry Jansen, former drummer, both add their crisp, tasteful, and creative stick- work to the mix.

A Mix of Instrumental and Vocals Tunes

One of the strengths of this album is a deep well of variety within the tracks. The instrumental tunes push each member to expand and bring voice to the instrument they utilize, tempos, textures, and creativity.

And the vocal tracks utilize the clean, clear voice of Breslin, and on one track the heartfelt voice of Michelle Cross in the mix as well.

My Conclusion

I hear this on many levels, and find it rewarding. The band has room and talent enough to grow, to push each other farther into the intricate and complex fields of progressive rock. I hope they do, since this album amply demonstrates their talent, passion, and poise.

That is to say: "Please- BE!"

My rating, a strong 3.5 stars- good, to excellent.

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