Originating from the Pagan Folk scene, Spriggan Mist have catapulted themselves into the British Prog sphere following a critically acclaimed performance at HRH Prog XI at the O2 in Sheffield. It was there that the band — affectionately known as “The Spriggs” — was labeled Progressive Folk Rock, opening doors to more mainstream festivals such as Weyfest and the Cambridge Rock Festival, in addition to key Prog circuit shows across the UK. While their roots remain firmly in Pagan Folk, Spriggan Mist’s musical vision is surprisingly wide-ranging and eclectic. Led by the charismatic Fay Brotherhood, whose distinctive vocal tone tells stories of steampunk mechanical dragons, fae creatures, and arcane mythologies, the band blends overdriven guitars with acoustic instruments like saxophone, recorders, whistles, and even crumhorn. The result is a rich sonic backdrop that elevates the theatricality of their live performances, recalling the intensity of Hawkwind and the ritualistic flair of Arthur Brown. With “The Glare,” released on November 02, 2025 via Progrock.com’s Essentials, Spriggan Mist reach their seventh studio album, consolidating their signature sound while exploring new sonic textures. The album opens with “The Gaze of The Dragon,” a delicate orchestral backdrop, subtle percussion, and Fay Brotherhood’s captivating vocals, immediately setting a mysterious atmosphere. Though brief (1:42), the track functions as a prologue, immersing the listener in the mythic world of Spriggs and foreshadowing the journey to come. This track “Ianatores Teresteres” erupts with cinematic, Heavy riffs. Its structure combines well-calibrated time changes, choral refrains, and a rich instrumental section: the solidity of rock-prog intertwines with Folk melodies, highlighted by a pastoral flute. The final crescendo evolves from a heavy foundation to a more Symphonic passage, culminating in a climax that showcases the band’s versatility. “Pieces of Glass” is a gentler, dreamlike side of Spriggan Mist here. The piece begins with subtle percussive drumming and expressive vocals, creating an intimate opening. Folk melodies gradually take center stage, evolving into a refined crescendo that develops a dialogue between guitars, wind instruments, and layered vocals. The central section explores incisive modern Folk-Prog, while the finale, with interwoven saxophone, recorder, and guitar lines, evokes poignant melancholy. Perhaps the softest and most poetic track on the album, “Faery Wood,” featuring delicate arpeggios, gentle vocals, and an atmosphere reminiscent of an enchanted forest. As it develops, arrangements incorporate ’70s-style Progressive elements without diluting the original Folk warmth. The interplay between simplicity and sophistication creates a naturally immersive experience. “Crystal Cave” is another long and well-structured track, beginning with serene Folk-Rock — arpeggiated guitar, soft bass, and harmonious vocalizations — before expanding into a more complex instrumental section. Here, dialogues between saxophone (or other wind instruments) and electric guitar build an almost dreamlike soundscape. The finale is understated yet deeply emotive, making “Crystal Cave” a highlight of the album’s narrative journey. A dynamic track, “The Cult,” merging Folk Rock with nearly Symphonic textures. Opening with reflective guitar and bass arpeggios, it evolves into more pronounced Rock rhythms and layered arrangements. High-quality instrumental interludes intertwine with engaging solos, and the vocals return with intensity in the closing section. Thematically, it evokes rituals and communal power — perfectly aligned with the band’s pagan mythology. The closing track “When Stars Collide” is a bold prog statement: rhythmic, driving, and featuring synth lines that oscillate between cosmic expansiveness and grounded melodies. Vocals alternate with dense instrumental passages, leading to a second half where wind instruments converse with guitar solos, culminating in a finale that is both galactic and intimately mythic. “The Glare” affirms Spriggan Mist as one of the most authentic and original forces in contemporary Folk Prog. This is not just a collection of songs; it is a mythopoetic journey, where each track represents a magical waypoint filled with intricate details and surprises. The album skillfully balances Pagan Folk roots — evident in flutes, recorders, and vocal harmonies — with the power of Progressive Rock, featuring electric riffs, Symphonic moments, and wind instrument solos. What stands out most is the band’s cohesion: no part feels superficial or tacked on. Every instrument has space, and the production highlights each element, maintaining a clean but never sterile mix. The album’s emotional arc is well-distributed: from the delicate opening to the expansive closing, there is a clear narrative and sonic vision. For listeners, this album is best experienced in its entirety. The progression from folk to prog, from Heavy riffs to symphonic passages, reveals its full depth when heard sequentially. For fans of fairy-tale atmospheres merged with Progressive Rock arrangements, “The Glare” is essential listening. From a live perspective, the theatricality of Fay and the visual storytelling — costumes, dance, lights, and wind instruments — would transform every performance into a sonic ritual.
Tracklist
01. The Gaze of The Dragon (01:42)
02. Ianatores Teresteres (06:50)
03. Pieces of Glass (07:53)
04. Faery Wood (06:29)
05. Crystal Cave (07:09)
06. The Cult (05:59)
07. When Stars Collide (07:38)
Lineup
Fay Brotherhood / Lead Vocals, Acoustic Guitar
Baz Cilia / Bass, Backing Vocals
Maxine Cilia / Guitar, Saxophone, Woodwinds (recorders, whistles), Backing Vocals
Neil Wighton / Guitar
Ali Soueidan / Drums
Aaron Cilia / Keyboards, Synthesizers