Earthrise’s self-titled 1978 album is one of the hidden gems of American Progressive Rock. Originating from New Jersey in the mid-70s, the band delivered a work that combines Symphonic richness, Jazz-inflected passages, and Experimental flair. This PQR Disques reissue, pressed in a limited edition of 200 black vinyl copies, celebrates the album’s legacy with careful attention to sound quality, faithful mastering, and packaging that honors the original release. For collectors and prog aficionados alike, this edition is a rare opportunity to experience a classic that has remained largely overlooked outside specialist circles. The album opens with “Eden’s Child,” immediately revealing the band’s musical direction: Symphonic Progressive Rock dominated by keyboards, complex time changes, and intricate instrumental passages interwoven with expressive vocals. The track balances epic, Yes-like openings with organ-driven proto-Prog textures reminiscent of late 60s Experimentation. Its Jazzy mid-section demonstrates the band’s technical skill and compositional originality. “Arcturus” begins with an atmospheric, dreamy keyboard intro, gradually unfolding into a Canterbury-inspired crescendo. The warm and expressive vocals sit perfectly atop the elaborate, jazzy arrangements, while the continuous shifts in tempo allow the instrumental sections to shine, emphasizing the band’s refined approach to Symphonic Prog. Side B opens with the title track, “Earthrise,” a fully instrumental composition featuring Symphonic textures and subtle synth highlights. The rhythm section navigates through intricate, ever-changing patterns, underpinning harmonically rich passages and demonstrating the band’s mastery of progressive structures. The album closes with “New Clear Dawn,” the longest piece at over ten minutes. Initially rooted in Jazz-inflected Progressive Rock, it evolves into more experimental territories, featuring virtuosic drumming and complex instrumental interplay. The track concludes with a seamless blend of Jazz and classic Prog motifs, leaving a lasting impression of the band’s creativity and technical prowess. This reissue confirms Earthrise as an absolute gem and a must-have for collectors and dedicated fans of Progressive Rock. The album showcases the band’s ability to merge symphonic elegance, jazz sophistication, and experimental daring, all within a cohesive artistic vision. For those seeking rare, high-quality vinyl editions and a true slice of 70s American Prog, this PQR Disques release is indispensable — a definitive addition to any serious collection.
Tracklist
A1 Eden’s Child (6:45)
A2 Arcturus (9:55)
B1 Earthrise (5:50)
B2 New Clear Dawn (10:08)
Lineup
Kenn Pierog / Bass Guitar, Acoustic Guitar, Electric Guitar, Mandolin, Lead Vocals, Backing Vocals
Greg Didonato / Drums
Bill Drobile / Keyboards, Guitar, Lead Vocals