French Progressive Rock band Nine Skies present “Horizons – Greatest Hits,” a special limited-edition release celebrating the band’s musical evolution across their acclaimed discography. Strictly limited to 100 individually hand-numbered copies, the album offers fans and collectors a rare opportunity to revisit the atmospheric, story-driven universe that has defined the band’s work since their debut. The album will be released on April 24th, with preorders now open for this exclusive edition.
Blending elements of Progressive Rock, Pop, Jazz and Cinematic Soundscapes, Nine Skies have built a reputation for ambitious concept albums that explore deeply human themes. Since their formation, the band has combined intricate musical arrangements with narrative storytelling, establishing a distinctive presence within the Modern Progressive Rock scene.
Their debut album “Return Home” (2017) introduced listeners to a contemporary musical narrative set within a modern city. Through the perspective of a central protagonist, the record follows interconnected characters whose stories reflect the tensions and contradictions of modern life, navigating between metaphor and realism while exploring personal struggle and resilience.
The band expanded its artistic scope with the ambitious double concept album “Sweetheart Grips” (2019), featuring vocalist Aliénor Favier. Inspired by the historical practice during the Second World War in which soldiers placed photographs of loved ones beneath the grips of their pistols — known as “sweetheart grips” — the album explores the psychological trauma of a young soldier suffering from post-traumatic stress. The project also features an impressive lineup of guest musicians including Craig Blundell, Clive Nolan, Dave Foster, Riccardo Romano, Pat Sanders and Johnny Marter.
In 2021, Nine Skies released “5.20,” a more intimate and largely acoustic record centred around a string quartet. The album features guest appearances from progressive rock icons including Steve Hackett, John Hackett and Damian Wilson, presenting a reflective and poetic collection of compositions shaped by delicate arrangements and atmospheric textures.
The band returned in 2023 with “The Lightmaker,” a sweeping concept album telling the story of Rudy, a character living his 1001st and final life. Through shifting perspectives and reincarnations, the album examines memory, identity and the human condition. The project also served as a tribute to the late guitarist Eric Bouillette, whose artistry played a central role in the band’s creative identity. Guest contributors on the album include Marco Minnemann, Adam Holzman, Kristoffer Gildenlöw, Charlie Bramald, John Mitchell, Martin Wilson, Riccardo Romano and more.
The album’s standout track “The Dreamer” gained international recognition after being selected as Prog Track of the Week by Prog Magazine, further cementing Nine Skies’ reputation among Progressive Music audiences worldwide — a record we have positively reviewed at Progressive Rock Journal. The band supported the album with a French tour in 2023, featuring Riccardo Romano on vocals.
“Horizons – Greatest Hits” brings together highlights from this journey, celebrating the band’s evolution while offering both longtime followers and new listeners an entry point into their richly textured sound.
Released as an exclusive collector’s edition limited to only 100 copies, each hand-numbered copy ensures authenticity and rarity, making the album a unique item for dedicated fans of Progressive Music.
The release is also dedicated to the memory of Eric Bouillette, whose musical vision and creativity continue to inspire the band.
“Always loved, never forgotten.
You will live on in our hearts and minds, and through your music.
You are exceptional, now and always.”
Nine Skies also extend their gratitude to the listeners who have supported their journey. Founder member Anne-Claire Rallo reflects on the band’s journey:
“Our followers have been the driving force behind every step of our journey. Horizons – Greatest Hits is our way of looking back at that journey and sharing it with the people who made it possible. Their support fuels every note we play and every new direction we explore.”
Purchase and Stream here: Bandcamp | Official Store
“Porcelain Hill” (feat. Damian Wilson): https://youtu.be/7WPpil_-XIc
“The Dreamer” (feat. Martin Wilson): https://youtu.be/FlBagd4XskY