Emerging from the creative uncertainty and spontaneous spirit born during lockdowns, Ambient Den is the new collaborative Progressive/Space Rock project featuring Australian musicians Ben Craven (“Monsters From The Id,” “Great & Terrible Potions”), Tim Bennetts (Seven Day Mask, SUB INC), and Dean Povey (Frankenfido). What began as intimate jam sessions between Craven and Bennetts quickly evolved into a fully fledged band, grounded in a musical chemistry that calls to mind iconic pairings such as David Gilmour & Rick Wright or Mike Rutherford & Tony Banks. The band’s self-titled debut album, “Ambient Den,” is a Cinematic concept record chronicling humanity’s search for a new home among the stars, culminating in the terraforming of a distant world. Produced by Craven, the album retains his signature lush, layered arrangements but benefits from the collective songwriting efforts of the trio. The sound pays homage to the golden age of 1970s Progressive Rock while embracing a modern ethos of musicians creating side-by-side in the studio — a refreshing approach in today’s often fragmented digital collaborations. The result is an immersive blend of atmosphere, melody, and epic storytelling that distinguishes itself from Craven’s solo work, while preserving the cinematic qualities his audience cherishes. The album opens with “Future History Part 1,” immediately setting a solid Progressive Rock tone. The track builds through a compelling crescendo that naturally leads into the following piece, “For All Mankind.” This second track begins with Atmospheric synth layers and deep keyboard tones before blossoming into a modern Progressive Rock composition tinged with Neo Prog elements. The band’s personal touch shines through expressive guitar solos intertwined with warm, emotive vocals. Echoing the airy yet catchy qualities of 1980s Pop-Prog, the song translates these influences into a contemporary and engaging format, enriched by thoughtful lyrics and an effective instrumental interplay dominated by keyboards and guitar. The track’s length — over eight minutes — allows the band to explore melodic and dynamic depths with finesse. “Provenance” follows, opening with well-crafted blends of guitar and keyboards over a soft rhythmic base, creating an intense and dreamy soundscape. This excellent instrumental piece particularly showcases the synergy between guitar and keyboard textures, conjuring vivid atmospheres that transport the listener. At over nine minutes, “Earthrise” is one of the album’s longest track and perhaps its emotional centerpiece. It opens with heartfelt vocals supported by intricate instrumental layers in the background. The song exemplifies modern Symphonic Prog with a memorable, stirring chorus and a richly melodic approach. Sophisticated shifts in tempo and enveloping vocal lines enhance the listening experience, while the latter half presents an engaging instrumental section spotlighting guitar work alongside Funky, modern bass lines — a creative nod to ’80s Prog reinterpreted with fresh energy. The epic suite “Terraforming” spans more than sixteen minutes of pure Symphonic Progressive Rock. The composition is both intricate and well-executed, with guitar prominently featured in the opening section, supported by a solid and elaborate rhythm section. Time signature changes and the blending of guitar and keyboard textures elevate the piece, evoking the spirit of 1970s Space Prog suites but rendered in a distinctly modern and personal style. This track stands as the album’s cornerstone, pushing the band’s sound toward the purest Progressive Rock expression while highlighting their compositional and technical prowess. The album closes with “Future History Part 2,” which revisits and expands upon themes from the opener. The sound here is infused with a Funky groove and excellent instrumental interplay, providing a satisfying conclusion to an otherwise compelling and well-crafted album. Melodic vocals and intricate arrangements carry the music toward a fitting and memorable finale. The final four tracks on the album serve as radio edits of previously presented songs, offering more accessible versions for wider audiences. Ambient Den is a compelling new project from Ben Craven, whose previous work has already established him as a versatile and skilled Progressive artist. This album deftly combines classic Prog influences, ’80s Pop-Prog touches, and a modern, personal sensibility. Its extended compositions skillfully blend these elements, providing something for a broad spectrum of Progressive Rock listeners — from lovers of vintage suites to fans of modern and Neo-Prog styles. With its melodic accessibility coupled with technical sophistication and rich Progressive motifs, Ambient Den offers a rewarding listening experience and reveals yet another facet of Ben Craven’s artistic vision. Highly recommended for those who appreciate Cinematic, thoughtfully crafted Progressive Rock that bridges eras and styles with elegance.
Tracklist
01. Future History Part 1 (01:48)
02. For All Mankind (08:16)
03. Provenance (05:58)
04. Earthrise (09:16)
05. Terraforming (16:31)
06. Future History Part 2 (05:37)
07. For All Mankind (Single Edit) 05:44
08. Earthrise (Single Edit) 04:39
09. Terraforming (Single Edit) 04:23
10. Future History Part 2 (Single Edit) 04:26
Lineup
Ben Craven / Guitars, Production
Tim Bennetts / Keyboards, Vocals
Dean Povey / Drums, Percussion, Vocals
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