Tin Spirits — Wired to Earth 2012

Wired To Earth is the stunning
debut album from Swindon Prog rockers Tin Spirits, featuring former
XTC guitarist Dave Gregory. Released on the band’s own
VIBROLA label, the album is marketed by Esoteric Recordings’
new front-line label, ESOTERIC ANTENNA, dedicated to new releases
by both new acts and established artists. Fans of Dave Gregory,
(one of the most original and inventive guitarists the UK has ever
produced), will find him in scintillating form on this new release.
The album comprises four original compositions, along with a cover
of the Genesis classic ‘Back in NYC’, a heavy hint as to some of
the influences at work here. With its complex arrangements,
ambitious scale and outstanding musicianship, Wired To Earth
channels the spirit of 1970s Progressive rock, yet it remains
firmly anchored to the present by strong melodies and irresistible
hooks. This is Progressive Rock with impeccable pop sensibilities,
and it provides a fittingly rich and varied backdrop for Dave
Gregory’s superb guitar work. His trademark blend of psychedelic
’60s jangle, ’70s rock riffing and new wave angularity has never
sounded more compelling or vital. However, the band is far from a
mere star vehicle for the ex-XTC man. With song-writing duties
split four ways, this quartet is about four musicians brought
together purely by their love of making music.
The band was formed in 2008, when guitarist Daniel Steinhardt
invited his friend and musical hero Dave Gregory to come and jam
with The Hi-Fidels, a Swindon-based trio made up of Steinhardt,
bassist/vocalist Mark Kilminster and drummer Doug Mussard. An
instant connection was made, and what began as four people getting
together to play covers for their own enjoyment was clearly
destined for greater things. Two and a half years on, fresh from
supporting Marillion in front of 3,000 people at the Marillion
Weekend 2011 festival in Port Zelande, Netherlands, Tin Spirits
have delivered one of the most exciting Progressive Rock releases
of the year so far.