Psychedelic progressive rockers The Room 1985 are back with their brand new album ‘The Bliss’, which is out now. Power trios are something you don’t see a lot of in this day and age of music. You could say the same for progressive rock bands. So, to find a trio progressive rock band is truly a treat for me, being the fan of both the genre and the idea of a core group of talented musicians. And, for my reasons and more, this is why Room 1985’s new album titled ‘The Bliss’ works on many levels.
For starters, the album has that “epic” feel that you don’t really find anymore. What I mean by epic is that the overall sound has an epic, almost orchestral vibe to it without being or feeling full of itself, as progressive rock can tend to do. But here, it is totally a band playing for the song, each song individually for that song and, track by track, it comes together in tight formation for an overall feel. This, to me, is brilliant songwriting and musical craftsmanship.
Obvious influences aside, Room 1985 take those influences and learn from them, not copy them. This is a true example of taking things to the next level with what is often lacking in new music: originality.
Their second release ‘The Bliss’ was released on August 10th 2018, both via Analogue Trash Records.
About Room 1985
What happens when the psychedelic experimentation of Pink Floyd meets eighties nostalgia and then mixes with modern electronic sounds and techniques? Add in a whisper of post-rock and metal and Room 1985 is the result. This band of three is ready to take your hand, your soul, your brain and your heart on a journey for all the senses.
Their influences (such as Depeche Mode, Mike Oldfield, The Mars Volta) are evident when you listen to The Room 1985 originals and they were born to play the music that inspires them and ignites inspiration in others.
Formed in 2016, the band was formed by Chris Crysand (guitar/synths) who has toured all over Europe with a previous electronic project and also with his Italian prog-metal band The Fifth Season. The bands boast collaborations with prestigious artists ranging from Van der Graaf Generator, Brandi Winny of Ozric Tentacles and Rofoldo Maltese through to DJ Antoine Becks, Lel Brothas, and Nero.
Guitarist Chris Crysand states: “I moved to Cheshire to try and form a band with no particular intentions or sound in mind, although I have always been a fan of synth-wave. I had previously advertised for a drummer and that’s when I met John (drummer) in a bar in Manchester’s Northern Quarter and soon the synth-wave idea turned in a “real” rock’n’ roll band with a strong electronic root. Now, we also incorporate a psychedelic / prog-rock feel. In April 2018, during the recording sessions of our second album, we met Sam (lead vocals/bass), who was planned to be a guest vocalist on one of the new songs. Then, for both sides, it seemed meant to be and so…. then there were three!”
Sam Stone, a singer and bass player with several years of experience (formerly of Wet Desert) was pursuing a career in both performing and music production. His passion for music spans many genres, including Deep House, Indie Rock, Jazz, Hip/Hop, and Soul.
John Hulse (drums/programming) is a versatile drummer, inspired by John Bonham, Nick Mason and Phil Collins and all the iconic drummers of the 1970’s. Having recently graduated at the BIMM Manchester Music College, John brings his experimental style using drum machines and electronic pads to create an original and unique sound.
The band’s self-titled debut album was released in July 2017, preceding a support slot for German icons Das Ich’s sold out show at The Ruby Lounge in Manchester.
Room 1985 are:
Sam Stone: Vocals and bass
John Hulse: Drums and Electronic Drums
Chris Crysand: Guitars, Synth and Backing Vocals
@Room1985 [rotatingtweets screen_name=’Room1985′]LINKS:
https://room1985.bandcamp.com
https://twitter.com/Room1985
https://www.instagram.com/room1985band
https://soundcloud.com/room-1985
https://open.spotify.com/artist/4LeuAhgV03elIfSmy09DK4
