If there is one thing that recent Progressive Rock acts have done, it is once and for all putting to bed the notion of the genre being predominantly style over substance, with a reliance on over-playing as opposed to having heart. A completely unfair assessment from day one of course; even just a cursory listen to the contemporary Prog Rock leaders such as Riverside, Steven Wilson, and The Pineapple Thief shows both an unwavering sense of emotion and a balance of challenging yet accessible song structuring.
Newly acquisitioned to the growing force of UK Progressive Rock White Star Records, Quantum Pig are another prime example of this bridge and, considering Songs Of Industry And Sunshine (White Star Records) is their debut release, an incredible adeptness, and layered, wholesome sound. Self-described as “A Prog Band and not a Prog Band”, Quantum Pig showcase these talked about complexities in their songwriting and marry them with strong and catchy Pop sensibilities. The latter are abundantly clear in the likes of ‘The Shadows We Miss’ and ‘Things’ the former being a soaring almost ballad-like slow burner, whilst ‘Things’ is more upbeat and anthemic offering.
There is plenty of harder elements in their sound as well, and the band aren’t afraid to tackle subjects with a hint of venom, chiefly on album opener ‘Statement Of Intent’ and its clear tackling of environmental issues and sporting a Grunge/Alternative Rock reminiscent guitar tone at the song’s offset, which later seamlessly transitions into more bombastic synths. Elsewhere ‘Long Letter Home’ and ‘Keep The Nation Warm’ are more explorative and lengthy, yet don’t feel inaccessible nor hugely contrasting to the remainder of the album.
White Star Records is a fast-growing presence in the UK Prog Rock scene, championing some of the best up and coming talent, and on their first album alone Quantum Pig have shown themselves to be one of the most exciting new bands in Progressive Rock. Whilst what they do may not be entirely original or innovative in a sense, how they bring elements together without feeling disparate is a breath of fresh air and shows a remarkable maturity on a debut album. In an already burgeoning Prog Rock scene in the UK, Quantum Pig has already made sure they are not to be overlooked.
7 / 10
CHRIS TIPPELL