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- Two Headed Emperor - Transference And Transgression (CD)
Two Headed Emperor have had a prolific 2020 with two brilliantly crafted albums in "Goldhanger Creek" and "Tales From A Mariners Pen". Suddenly, out of nowhere they have presented us with their fifth album "Transference & Transgression". This is an abrupt turn in direction from two rather pastoral predecessors. It is intense, brooding full of darkness and an air of impending doom. It's a mettlesome observation of the times capturing the mood of the moment. The soundscape of brass mellotron, heavy bass, gritty saxophone and sheet metal guitar is perfect frame for the dark dystopian poetic lyrics telling stories of human brokenness. There are moments of hope and optimism in this cataclysmic ruin but we are our own worst enemy or as Barry Lamb observes "it's your head that you dread".
The amazing thing about Two Headed Emperor is that though they frequently change direction and sound they have a very identifiable stamp and a distinctive atmosphere. Every album they have released has delivered some truly remarkable moments and left me wondering how on earth are they going to follow what they have put on the table. "Transference And Transgression" has set the bar very high indeed. This is one of the best albums I have ever heard.
- Dr. Chemistry Set
The amazing thing about Two Headed Emperor is that though they frequently change direction and sound they have a very identifiable stamp and a distinctive atmosphere. Every album they have released has delivered some truly remarkable moments and left me wondering how on earth are they going to follow what they have put on the table. "Transference And Transgression" has set the bar very high indeed. This is one of the best albums I have ever heard.
- Dr. Chemistry Set
Two Headed Emperor – Transference and Transgression (Falling A Records)
The… enigma, the… unexpected… the otherworldly… summoning up the spirit of classic, British Progressive rock. Scary enough for King Crimson, Van Der Graaf Generator, Egg and so many more but this is a modern fusion of these influences, incorporating musical storytelling of the highest order. Firstly, I must make one thing clear, I love this band having listened to their musical output since the band’s inception and the unique creative force that is Two Headed Emperor. Superb instrumentation from the irrepressible Barry Lamb and Peter Ashby. These two musicians have a superb chemistry between them. Everything fits so smoothly into complex arrangements, both organically and thoughtfully constructed. Fantastically imaginative playing and as always, Barry’s vocal delivery is unique as he paints the contemporary imagery. Lyrically hitting the listener with home truths from the off with a tremendous riff. Frank Zappa meets Soft Machine meets King Crimson. Quite a feat but you have to understand that this band are expert musical jugglers. Two Headed Emperor create a sound that it truly intriguing. Do yourself a favour, buy this album and help to keep the soul of imaginative rock alive.
Tim Jones – December 2020
The… enigma, the… unexpected… the otherworldly… summoning up the spirit of classic, British Progressive rock. Scary enough for King Crimson, Van Der Graaf Generator, Egg and so many more but this is a modern fusion of these influences, incorporating musical storytelling of the highest order. Firstly, I must make one thing clear, I love this band having listened to their musical output since the band’s inception and the unique creative force that is Two Headed Emperor. Superb instrumentation from the irrepressible Barry Lamb and Peter Ashby. These two musicians have a superb chemistry between them. Everything fits so smoothly into complex arrangements, both organically and thoughtfully constructed. Fantastically imaginative playing and as always, Barry’s vocal delivery is unique as he paints the contemporary imagery. Lyrically hitting the listener with home truths from the off with a tremendous riff. Frank Zappa meets Soft Machine meets King Crimson. Quite a feat but you have to understand that this band are expert musical jugglers. Two Headed Emperor create a sound that it truly intriguing. Do yourself a favour, buy this album and help to keep the soul of imaginative rock alive.
Tim Jones – December 2020