Comedy Of Errors are one of the longest running bands of the new wave of Progressive Rock, formed in 1984 in Glasgow. After a few moments of hiatus since 2011, they have resumed their musical activity permanently. The new album “Time Machine” was released on September 23, 2022 and contains 6 long tracks. The opening track “The Knight Returns” starts off immediately strong with an elaborate and accelerated rhythm section. Interweaving guitar and synths drive the melodies, the tempo changes are a real asset and the vocals are dynamic and expressive. The band alternates energetic passages with softer ones, with solo inserts and refined textures, with a sound with a modern imprint that traces the sounds of Neo Prog. Symphonic and dreamy sections alternate with accelerated sections where the band brings out all its technique in both composition and performance. An orchestral-sounding intro opens “Lost Demigods,” before developing into a mid-tempo and more melodic stretches. A solid track that combines Prog and Rock with the band’s personal touch, where the tempo changes allow the song’s theme to be elaborated with quality. There are many interesting interweavings between guitar and keyboards and the intensity in the vocal parts, softer than the previous one but still with a lot of quality. “Wonderland” is an epic track of over 15 minutes that encapsulates the essence of quality Progressive Rock. Continuous tempo changes, bombastic keyboards and intricate passages, a technical and solid rhythm section and absolutely valuable ideas show how the band develops their ideas to the fullest. The vocals are warm and expressive, leaving more space for long instrumental textures, creating excellent and refined solos. All the ingredients one would look for in a suite of this duarata are there. A deep bass line opens “The Past of Future Days” developed with arpeggios and orchestrations that give the track a dreamy touch. A softer, more delicate passage softens the tone in the midst of the album’s more energetic tracks. The title track “Time Machine” is another epic over 12 minutes long, opening with sweet piano notes. After a softer first part, the band’s more pompous atmospheres characterise the track, which in the middle part with a change offers intricate Prog with accelerations and tempo changes. The long instrumental textures enhance the guitar twists and the numerous keyboards on the disc. In the second part an intense vocal interprets the lyrics with pathos, concluding with positive melodies. “Disobey” is a bonus track recorded live that shows all the band’s technique and quality in live performances. If the audience were not there to applaud and cheer the band, for the quality expressed it would sound like it was recorded in the studio, credit must be given to the band. A band that offers a style of Prog that brings the pleasant atmospheres of the past into a modern context thanks to decades of experience. Technique, quality and ideas of a high standard, with all the ingredients that a Prog listener would expect when purchasing such an album. A high-level listen, recommended for all lovers of Prog sounds from all eras and eras, the band’s trademark is quality music.
Tracklist
1. The Knight Returns (6:32)
2. Lost Demigods (5:20)
3. Wonderland (15:30)
4. The Past of Future Days (4:35)
5. Time Machine (12:22)
6. Disobey (bonus track) (7:02)
Lineup
Joe Cairney / Vocals
Sam McCulloch / Guitars
Mark Spalding / Guitars
Jim Johnston / Keyboards
Bruce Levick / Drums
