Progressive Rock Review: The Aaron Clift Experiment-Outer Light Inner Darkness

Release Date: 18^th September 2015

Label:  Aaron Clift Productions

Website 
 

I previously reviewed The Aaron Clift Experiment debut album, Lonely Hills, on its release in 2012 and now, 3 years further down the line comes the follow-up album by the band, Outer Light Inner Darkness. The first album was very good and received a 4.5/5 and it is interesting to see where the Aaron Clift Experiment has moved to since that point.

The band is a 4 piece, initially formed in 2012 by Aaron Clift (vocals, keyboards) along with Jim Ragland (guitars), Joe Green (bass) and Joe Resnick (drums), but there have been several changes since the release of Lonely Hills. Jim Ragland was first to leave, being replaced by Danny Brymer, who in turn left in 2013 to be replaced by the current guitarist, Eric Gutierrez. More movement saw the bass player, Joe Green leave and in his stead arrived Devin North earlier this year.

Outer Light Inner Darkness is a 10 track album, if you include the 2 bonus tracks, running for just over 63 minutes. The shortest track is ”Your Arms Hold Them to The Dark (acoustic version)” at 3:40 minutes and the 3 part suite, “Moonscape” incorporating “The Frontline,” “Fool’s Mate” and “Outer Light Inner Darkness” at 12:04 minutes is the longest.

Opening proceedings for Outer Light Inner Darkness is the track, “Kissed By The Sun” (7:40) which certainly grabs the listener by the ears with both guitar, then violin, demanding attention. The song is then underpinned by the bass and drums of Devin and Joe, prior to the suave, sophisticated vocals of Aaron putting in an appearance. Although going through the initial fiery intro sequence, then coming down a few rungs, this track continues to demand the attention of the listener. Moving from bass to piano, to guitar led passages, this is a classy opening track to the album. The guitar of Eric has a harder edge than appeared on the debut release.

There is a much more laid back style with track 2, “Locked” (5:22) and it quickly moves into a stylish jazzy feel before the tempo builds and heralds an excellent guitar passage. This powers the track along and then the soundscape lowers to the more laid back style of the start to escort the track out.

“Fragments of Sleep” (4:37) is a slightly more up-tempo style with a repetitive piano motif and a stunningly simple but powerful combination of the drum and bass engine-house. Aaron’s voice is always clear above the music and is the one consistent anchor in the proceedings. This is a more thoughtful track with a style change into the second half with strings/violin and great harmonizing/double-tracked vocals. A short a cappella section takes the track out and into the somber, almost sinister, piano intro of the next track, “Your Arms Hold Them To The Dark” (4:20). This has a slow, almost ponderous pace with the guitar riff crashing through then allowing more vocals, but the feeling of malevolence is always seemingly lurking just under the surface. Track 4 is a very different track to earlier material which highlights the confidence and maturity that the band has gained.

Next up is “Aiode, Goddess of Song” (5:57) which harks back to the almost abrasive style start to the opening track which then falls away as the vocals enter. From that point, the track moves effortlessly from the more upbeat driving passages to the softer melodic sections.

“The Last Oasis” (8:35) has a beautiful piano start which is then joined by a simple almost understated bass theme and a melancholic violin passage. This seems very classical in structure as the band slowly blends into the ethereal soundscape around the 3 minute mark. A tempo change speeds the track up, but it retains its classical styled appeal and seems to be instrumental with Eric’s guitar getting a long melodic workout. Well past the halfway point, the vocals, almost unexpectedly, make an appearance. Aaron’s crystal clear vocals add to the feeling of majesty, just before the rhythm engine bumps proceedings up a notch or two and drives this excellent track towards its finale.

“Moonscape” (12:05) is a simply superb track starting with just the voice of Aaron, military drumming and underpinned with a repeated keyboard motif. War sounds off in the distance paint a stunning aural landscape held by the simple guitar, keyboards and voice. The guitar then backs the vocal with some strummed chords before the keyboard motif reappears. Eric gets a chance to fire off a subtle guitar passage and you can almost sense that he was trying very hard not to allow the guitar to simply fly away. There is a meandering feel at times to this extended track, but that isn’t to say the listener is allowed to switch off. The passage of repeating the album title is almost trance like and demands attention. The guitar again has a long subdued passage with Aaron vocalizing at points rather than singing. This is a majestic 12+ minutes which is worth a 5 star review all on its own.

“Moonscape” moves seamlessly into the next track, “Bathed In Moonlight” (7:27) and this is simply Aaron’s voice, backed by excellent keyboard, effortless drumming, subtle bass and simple, but wonderful, guitar. Almost 7.5 minutes of heavenly, serene music to admire.

The last 2 tracks are classed as bonus tracks, one is an acoustic version of “Your Arms Hold Them To The Dark” (3:39) and the single version of the opening track, “Kissed By The Sun” (3:59)

Outer Light Inner Darkness is one of those albums that even on first hearing, you are aware that you are listening to something special. Repeated plays of this album simply make the satisfied smile wider and wider. The debut album was an amazing first release, but this release sees the band soar.

This album has certainly made me stop in my tracks, as my previous review (Kinetic Element) was my choice of release of the year, but Outer Light Inner Darkness, has now equaled that album. The Ancient One is extremely lucky to have reviewed 2 cracking albums one after the other.

My advice is to go out and buy Outer Light Inner Darkness as soon as possible and add one of the best albums of 2015 to your collection.

5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: The Last Oasis, Moonscape, Bathed in Moonlight

Tracks:
Kissed By The Sun
Locked
Fragments Of Sleep
Your Arms Hold Them To The Dark
Aoide, Goddess Of Spring
The Last Oasis
Moonscape
Bathed In Moonlight
Your Arms Hold Them To The Dark (acoustic)
Kissed By The Sun (single version)
 

Jim “The Ancient One” Lawson-Sr. Reviewer Prog Rock Music Talk

September 17, 2015

Review Provided By Prog Rock Music Talk

Progressive Rock Review: The Aaron Clift Experiment-Outer Light Inner Darkness

Release Date: 18^thSeptember 2015

Label:  Aaron Clift Productions

Website 
 

I previously reviewed The Aaron Clift Experiment debut album, Lonely Hills, on its release in 2012 and now, 3 years further down the line comes the follow-up album by the band, Outer Light Inner Darkness. The first album was very good and received a 4.5/5 and it is interesting to see where the Aaron Clift Experiment has moved to since that point.

The band is a 4 piece, initially formed in 2012 by Aaron Clift (vocals, keyboards) along with Jim Ragland (guitars), Joe Green (bass) and Joe Resnick (drums), but there have been several changes since the release of Lonely Hills. Jim Ragland was first to leave, being replaced by Danny Brymer, who in turn left in 2013 to be replaced by the current guitarist, Eric Gutierrez. More movement saw the bass player, Joe Green leave and in his stead arrived Devin North earlier this year.

Outer Light Inner Darkness is a 10 track album, if you include the 2 bonus tracks, running for just over 63 minutes. The shortest track is ”Your Arms Hold Them to The Dark (acoustic version)” at 3:40 minutes and the 3 part suite, “Moonscape” incorporating “The Frontline,” “Fool’s Mate” and “Outer Light Inner Darkness” at 12:04 minutes is the longest.

Opening proceedings for Outer Light Inner Darkness is the track, “Kissed By The Sun” (7:40) which certainly grabs the listener by the ears with both guitar, then violin, demanding attention. The song is then underpinned by the bass and drums of Devin and Joe, prior to the suave, sophisticated vocals of Aaron putting in an appearance. Although going through the initial fiery intro sequence, then coming down a few rungs, this track continues to demand the attention of the listener. Moving from bass to piano, to guitar led passages, this is a classy opening track to the album. The guitar of Eric has a harder edge than appeared on the debut release.

There is a much more laid back style with track 2, “Locked” (5:22) and it quickly moves into a stylish jazzy feel before the tempo builds and heralds an excellent guitar passage. This powers the track along and then the soundscape lowers to the more laid back style of the start to escort the track out.

“Fragments of Sleep” (4:37) is a slightly more up-tempo style with a repetitive piano motif and a stunningly simple but powerful combination of the drum and bass engine-house. Aaron’s voice is always clear above the music and is the one consistent anchor in the proceedings. This is a more thoughtful track with a style change into the second half with strings/violin and great harmonizing/double-tracked vocals. A short a cappella section takes the track out and into the somber, almost sinister, piano intro of the next track, “Your Arms Hold Them To The Dark” (4:20). This has a slow, almost ponderous pace with the guitar riff crashing through then allowing more vocals, but the feeling of malevolence is always seemingly lurking just under the surface. Track 4 is a very different track to earlier material which highlights the confidence and maturity that the band has gained.

Next up is “Aiode, Goddess of Song” (5:57) which harks back to the almost abrasive style start to the opening track which then falls away as the vocals enter. From that point, the track moves effortlessly from the more upbeat driving passages to the softer melodic sections.

“The Last Oasis” (8:35) has a beautiful piano start which is then joined by a simple almost understated bass theme and a melancholic violin passage. This seems very classical in structure as the band slowly blends into the ethereal soundscape around the 3 minute mark. A tempo change speeds the track up, but it retains its classical styled appeal and seems to be instrumental with Eric’s guitar getting a long melodic workout. Well past the halfway point, the vocals, almost unexpectedly, make an appearance. Aaron’s crystal clear vocals add to the feeling of majesty, just before the rhythm engine bumps proceedings up a notch or two and drives this excellent track towards its finale.

“Moonscape” (12:05) is a simply superb track starting with just the voice of Aaron, military drumming and underpinned with a repeated keyboard motif. War sounds off in the distance paint a stunning aural landscape held by the simple guitar, keyboards and voice. The guitar then backs the vocal with some strummed chords before the keyboard motif reappears. Eric gets a chance to fire off a subtle guitar passage and you can almost sense that he was trying very hard not to allow the guitar to simply fly away. There is a meandering feel at times to this extended track, but that isn’t to say the listener is allowed to switch off. The passage of repeating the album title is almost trance like and demands attention. The guitar again has a long subdued passage with Aaron vocalizing at points rather than singing. This is a majestic 12+ minutes which is worth a 5 star review all on its own.

“Moonscape” moves seamlessly into the next track, “Bathed In Moonlight” (7:27) and this is simply Aaron’s voice, backed by excellent keyboard, effortless drumming, subtle bass and simple, but wonderful, guitar. Almost 7.5 minutes of heavenly, serene music to admire.

The last 2 tracks are classed as bonus tracks, one is an acoustic version of “Your Arms Hold Them To The Dark” (3:39) and the single version of the opening track, “Kissed By The Sun” (3:59)

Outer Light Inner Darkness is one of those albums that even on first hearing, you are aware that you are listening to something special. Repeated plays of this album simply make the satisfied smile wider and wider. The debut album was an amazing first release, but this release sees the band soar.

This album has certainly made me stop in my tracks, as my previous review (Kinetic Element) was my choice of release of the year, but Outer Light Inner Darkness, has now equaled that album. The Ancient One is extremely lucky to have reviewed 2 cracking albums one after the other.

My advice is to go out and buy Outer Light Inner Darkness as soon as possible and add one of the best albums of 2015 to your collection.

5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: The Last Oasis, Moonscape, Bathed in Moonlight

Tracks:
Kissed By The Sun
Locked
Fragments Of Sleep
Your Arms Hold Them To The Dark
Aoide, Goddess Of Spring
The Last Oasis
Moonscape
Bathed In Moonlight
Your Arms Hold Them To The Dark (acoustic)
Kissed By The Sun (single version)
 

Jim “The Ancient One” Lawson-Sr. Reviewer Prog Rock Music Talk

September 17, 2015

Review Provided By Prog Rock Music Talk

Prog Ensemble The Aaron Clift Experiment To Release Highly Anticipated Concept Album "Outer Light, Inner Darkness"

Austin, TX - One of the most eagerly awaited Prog albums of 2015 will be released in September by The Aaron Clift Experiment! Titled “Outer Light, Inner Darkness”, this is the second CD by the Austin ensemble and marks a musical plateau for the group with its intricate compositions, complex arrangements and virtuosic performances!

Band leader, Aaron explains, “ 'Outer Light, Inner Darkness' is a concept album about duality: light vs. darkness, individual vs. group, hope vs. despair, etc. Songs in the first half of the album detail the conflict between these opposing forces, while the songs in second half of the album are a journey toward reconciling the extremes. The album culminates with 'Bathed in Moonlight,' a song about how humanity can learn to embrace its outer light and inner darkness and become one with both sides of its nature.”

Just as scientists conduct experiments by using their knowledge to explore the unknown, The Aaron Clift Experiment combines elements of classic and cutting-edge music into an innovative whole. The band's unique songs draw from a wide range of influences – from classic progressive rock acts like Genesis, Pink Floyd, and Rush to modern groups like Porcupine Tree and Opeth to classical and jazz composers like Beethoven, Schubert, and John Coltrane. Aside from its diversity, The Aaron Clift Experiment is dedicated to producing soulful, powerful music and an intense live show.

In 2012, the band released its critically acclaimed debut album, “Lonely Hills,” to rave reviews from both fans and the music press and was named one of the best unsigned bands of 2013 by Prog Magazine.

With the release of the band's second album, “Outer Light, Inner Darkness” in September 2015, The Aaron Clift Experiment continues to lead the way in fusing the sophistication and depth of classical music with the passion and raw power of rock and roll. What began as an idea of how to create music has now blossomed into a full-fledged experiment. The band invites you to join them in this experiment as they embark on their new path.

Says Aaron, “Although The Aaron Clift Experiment started as my solo project, 'Outer Light, Inner Darkness' marks the birth of ACE as a full-fledged band. Unlike the first album, in which I wrote all the songs and arrangements, the songwriting and arranging process for the second album was a largely collaborative process, with all of the band members contributing elements to the sound that makes the album our most diverse to date. One of the fun challenges of co-writing between me and my band mates is that we all have very distinct songwriting styles and music preferences. As a result, we all pushed each other to write outside of our comfort zones. Sometimes this could be disorienting process, but in the end, it helped us write our strongest songs to date. The song, 'Aoide, Goddess of Song,' was in a way my commentary on what it can be like to come up with brand new music.”

Here's what the press has raved about The Aaron Clift Experiment:

“The Aaron Clift Experiment strikes a nerve right away . . . pleasing as well as entertaining for the ears and mind, a true prog experience.” - Closet Concert Arena

“There is a journey to be taken while listening to The Aaron Clift Experiment’s songs, and for me that is one of the most appealing aspects of progressive music.” - Dr. Music’s Weekly Checkup

“The Aaron Clift Experiment has great melodies. . .the music is tight and controlled.” - Austin Mix Tape

Featuring:
Aaron Clift – Vocals/Keyboards
Eric Gutierrez – Guitar
Joe Resnick – Drums
Devin North – Bass

In support of the new CD release, The Aaron Clift Experiment is currently filming a music video for the album's lead single, “Kissed by the Sun.” The video will debut in late August to coincide with their August 27 album release show in Austin. Next year, they're looking to play some progressive rock festivals, particularly in Europe.

To purchase Aaron Clift Experiment's “Outer Light, Inner Darkness” CD: www.aaronclift.com/shop

For more information:
http://aaronclift.com/

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158, glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Prog Ensemble The Aaron Clift Experiment To Release Highly Anticipated Concept Album "Outer Light, Inner Darkness"

Austin, TX - One of the most eagerly awaited Prog albums of 2015 will be released in September by The Aaron Clift Experiment! Titled “Outer Light, Inner Darkness”, this is the second CD by the Austin ensemble and marks a musical plateau for the group with its intricate compositions, complex arrangements and virtuosic performances!

Band leader, Aaron explains, “ 'Outer Light, Inner Darkness' is a concept album about duality: light vs. darkness, individual vs. group, hope vs. despair, etc. Songs in the first half of the album detail the conflict between these opposing forces, while the songs in second half of the album are a journey toward reconciling the extremes. The album culminates with 'Bathed in Moonlight,' a song about how humanity can learn to embrace its outer light and inner darkness and become one with both sides of its nature.”

Just as scientists conduct experiments by using their knowledge to explore the unknown, The Aaron Clift Experiment combines elements of classic and cutting-edge music into an innovative whole. The band's unique songs draw from a wide range of influences – from classic progressive rock acts like Genesis, Pink Floyd, and Rush to modern groups like Porcupine Tree and Opeth to classical and jazz composers like Beethoven, Schubert, and John Coltrane. Aside from its diversity, The Aaron Clift Experiment is dedicated to producing soulful, powerful music and an intense live show.

In 2012, the band released its critically acclaimed debut album, “Lonely Hills,” to rave reviews from both fans and the music press and was named one of the best unsigned bands of 2013 by Prog Magazine.

With the release of the band's second album, “Outer Light, Inner Darkness” in September 2015, The Aaron Clift Experiment continues to lead the way in fusing the sophistication and depth of classical music with the passion and raw power of rock and roll. What began as an idea of how to create music has now blossomed into a full-fledged experiment. The band invites you to join them in this experiment as they embark on their new path.

Says Aaron, “Although The Aaron Clift Experiment started as my solo project, 'Outer Light, Inner Darkness' marks the birth of ACE as a full-fledged band. Unlike the first album, in which I wrote all the songs and arrangements, the songwriting and arranging process for the second album was a largely collaborative process, with all of the band members contributing elements to the sound that makes the album our most diverse to date. One of the fun challenges of co-writing between me and my band mates is that we all have very distinct songwriting styles and music preferences. As a result, we all pushed each other to write outside of our comfort zones. Sometimes this could be disorienting process, but in the end, it helped us write our strongest songs to date. The song, 'Aoide, Goddess of Song,' was in a way my commentary on what it can be like to come up with brand new music.”

Here's what the press has raved about The Aaron Clift Experiment:

“The Aaron Clift Experiment strikes a nerve right away . . . pleasing as well as entertaining for the ears and mind, a true prog experience.” - Closet Concert Arena

“There is a journey to be taken while listening to The Aaron Clift Experiment’s songs, and for me that is one of the most appealing aspects of progressive music.” - Dr. Music’s Weekly Checkup

“The Aaron Clift Experiment has great melodies. . .the music is tight and controlled.” - Austin Mix Tape

Featuring:
Aaron Clift – Vocals/Keyboards
Eric Gutierrez – Guitar
Joe Resnick – Drums
Devin North – Bass

In support of the new CD release, The Aaron Clift Experiment is currently filming a music video for the album's lead single, “Kissed by the Sun.” The video will debut in late August to coincide with their August 27 album release show in Austin. Next year, they're looking to play some progressive rock festivals, particularly in Europe.

To purchase Aaron Clift Experiment's “Outer Light, Inner Darkness” CD: www.aaronclift.com/shop

For more information:
http://aaronclift.com/

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158, glassonyonpr@gmail.com