LUMINOUS NEWTS

US band LUMINOUS NEWTS was formed back in 2012, revolving around the talents of composers Thea Kelly and Eric Kampman. They describe their music as a blend of pop art, melodic rock and progressive rock. They released their self-titled debut album in 2015 through Amphibious Music, which is probably their own label.

What Luminous Newts brings to the table is an easygoing brand of progressive rock, often revolving around the lead vocals and an ongoing piano motif, with the remaining instruments often given more of a supportive role. From careful and inviting to whimsical and subtly quirky, this is a compelling production that most often is easy on the ears as well as the mind. Progressive rock mainly explored within a pop music framework if you like. As the band have chosen to cover one of his sings, I suspect that many who enjoy the material of the late Kevin Gilbert should find this album to be to their liking.