Hogarth/Barbieri
STEVE HOGARTH and RICHARD BARBIERI
"NOT THE WEAPON BUT THE HAND"
"NOT THE WEAPON BUT THE HAND"
Although filed in my collection as a Steve Hogarth solo work, let me state for the record that Not The Weapon But The Hand is a collaboration between Hogarth, best known as the frontman of Marillion, and Barbieri, a core member of Porcupine Tree.
I would also like to go on record say stressing that fans expecting one glorious Marillion meets PT opus will be somewhat disappointed, for this excellent album bears hardly any resemblance to the duo's day jobs.
This album is a thoughtful, complex, at turns deeply dark and disturbing, and at others uplifting, piece of work, but never anything less than interesting for those who appreciate something a bit different.
The keyboards and Hogarth's lyrics beautifully and poignantly paint images for the listener, at time punctuated by pulsating bass lines, distorted riffs and ethereal sound effects. On one track, Hogarth's voice is distorted to add a menacing undertone, and on another deceptively simple guitar work backs a deeply reflective spoken lyric where Hogarth's voice sublimely washes over the listener.
There is a lot going on in this work, and it will take a few listens to discover it. If you are not a fan of Steve Hogarth already, I am not certain that this is the album that will convert you, nor would I recommend this one to "set the mood" for an evening you hope to end with a romantic encounter.
A collaboration between two of modern progressive rock's finest minds, this is deep and complex music that can only be rewarded through repeated listens. It is different, but having read this far, you might find a lot to enjoy here.
NAKED
ONLY LOVE WILL MAKE YOU FREE
TRACK BY TRACK PART ONE
TRACK BY TRACK PART TWO
.jpeg)
I had never heard of them before, but I listened to those tracks, and I really like it. Thanks.
ReplyDeleteInteresting sound, thanks!
ReplyDeleteFrom A to Z, Kristen's blog: kristenhead.blogspot.com
I only know a tiny bit of Porcupine Tree, but love what I have heard, particularly "Blackest Eyes". Adding this artist to my 'to listen' list :)
ReplyDeleteFamiliar with the groups. I like Porcupine Tree a lot. Kind of familiar with some of Hogarth's solo work from hearing it on AOL prog rock radio.
ReplyDeleteLee
A Faraway View
An A to Z Co-host blog
HELLO-
ReplyDeleteJUST WANTED TO THANK EVERYONE WHO COMMENTED THIS WEEK.
I WAS AWAY AND HAD TROUBLE ACCESSING THE INTERNET AT THE HOTEL.
YOU WILL BE GLAD TO KNOW I HAD NO TROUBLE ACCESSING THE COMPANY CHARGE CARD OR THE BAR AT THE HOTEL POOL.
I WILL TRY TO CATCH UP ON COMMENTS AND BLOGS OVER THE NEXT FEW DAYS.
DISCCONNECTED