Originally self-released back in February 2011, Corsair's second EP Ghosts Of Proxima Centauri is part of their new label Shadow Kingdom's project of re-releasing the band's back catalogue. And thank heavens for that because Corsair needs to be out there being the great band they are. Going backwards in the time line Shadow Kingdom first released the band's latest effort, the self-titled first full-length before turning the attention to the two previous EP's(well at the time of writing I actually don't know if Alpha Centauri will be re-released). That's an interesting move in my opinion because Corsair, the album, is a fantastic effort full of great guitar harmonies a lá Thin Lizzy. Ghosts Of Proxima Centauri has a lot of that too but there are more influences on hand and albeit an already great band, you can tell Corsair were still finding their way here.
On this their second EP Corsair does not hold back at all. Taking all the musical talent within the band they threw it in a huge cauldron adding bits and pieces of Thin Lizzy, fellow Virginian maestros Valkyrie, King Crimson and went all out. The end result is impressively good especially since any restraints they might have had are non-existent. Instead the band let the music take them wherever they want to go and to me this is where King Crimson comes in. Never afraid to push boundaries and without any concern what anyone would think of them, King Crimson's innovative and fearless approach has rubbed off so well on these young Virginians. Trial and error is the name of the game and if you never give up great music will be made...Corsair has all that sussed out and then some.
In line with their fearlessness Corsair starts off the EP with an instrumental track, Wolfrider, and immediately they put their unique stamp on the music world. The twin-guitar work is beyond words where Paul Sebring and Marie Landragin track licks and riffs back and forth with such ease it makes my skin prickle! Check out the end of Warrior Woman where they go nuts taking turns soloing just the way Scott Gorham and Brian Robertson did....amazing!!! For all this to be coherent the backline of bassist Jordan Brunk and drummer Aaron Lipscombe are tight as hell and on the spot which gives Paul and Marie totally freedom as the band creates greatness.
Another interesting feature is that Paul, Marie and Jordan all share the vocal duties. And many times throughout Ghosts Of Proxima Centauri they utilize dual lead vocals which enhances their sound even more. Although I have to admit it also brings Valkyrie to mind the way brothers Jake and Pete Adams share the singing back and forth while shredding their guitars to bits. My favourite track on the EP, Orca, is a perfect example of this but also it bring everything that Corsair are into one song. There are some of everything from them in this one and it is absolutely amazing. There must be something in the water over in Virginia and I want some of it!
If you already have their full-length you definitely need Ghosts Of Proxima Centauri. Not only will you have even more great songs from the band, you will also help to put them out there....out there where they need to be playing their fantastic music to ever growing masses. On the other hand, if you have never heard Corsair before this EP is the perfect start. Of course you should get Corsair the album as well, either way you go any of their releases will be the perfect initiation for you waveriders. So do check them them out because music like theirs is rare and deserves recognition.
--Swedebeast
Comments