Erik Norlander The Galactic Collective
by John Kindred
Staff Writer
Erik Norlander’s latest studio effort titled The Galactic Collective finds the artist returning to the past. With idea of re-imagining previous recordings, Norlander delivers 10 new music arrangements. His inspiration comes from songs that appeared on albums he recorded with the Rocket Scientists, Lana Lane and his own solo releases. For the un- indoctrinated, Norlander has built a career as an instrumental musician who emphases Prog-Rock by utilizing his skills at the keyboard, synthesizer and piano. His musical endeavors are a firm reminder of the ‘70s, when bands like ELP and ELO were making bold musical statements in the Prog-Rock world.
Joining Norlander on his journey are bassist Mark Matthews, drummer Nick LePar and Lana Lane and John Payne handling the vocals. Guest guitarists include: John Payne, Mitch Perry, Mark McCrite, Ron Redfield and Freddy DeMarco. The album was recorded at Magnetic North Studio in Cleveland, with engineer Chris Keffer and executive producer Dena Henry. Norlander made use of vintage analog synthesizers, a Hammond organ and Steinway grand piano.
Musically, there is a firm emphasis that places the synthesizer, keyboard or piano melodies in the front of the sonic landscape. Norlander isn’t afraid to share the spotlight. His inclusion of guitar solos, electric guitar rhythms and the strength of bassist Matthews and drummer LaPar build the music into majestic masterpieces. The Galactic Collective sets forth a mood that takes the listener on a 79-minute energetic, spacey Pink Floyd-ish (kind of way) journey wrapped into a spellbinding musical opus.
Overall, The Galactic Collective is ambitious. The atmosphere created by Norlander is on par with a great movie director, as he invites you into the story you. An once in, you don’t want to leave as you wait for the end, when the credits finally roll. There is a lot to digest musically, but the music warrants your attention. This is an album with which you can sit back, close your eyes and become a part of the experience. The Galactic Collective is certainly one of Norlander’s finer moments.
Genre: Instrumental Progressive Rock
Musicians:
Erik Norlander (k)(s)(p)
Mark Matthews (b)
Nick LePar (d)
Lana Lana (v)
Guests:
John Payne (g)(v)
Mitch Perry (g)
Mark McCrite (g)
Ron Redfield (g)
Freddy DeMarco (g)
Track Listing:
1. Arrival
2. Neurosaur
3. Fanfare for Absent Friends
4. Sky Full of Stars
5. Astrology Prelude
6. Trantor Station
7. After The Revolution
8. Garden of the Moon
9. Dreamcurrents
10. The Dark Water
Label: Think Tank Media
Hardrock Haven rating: 8.5/10