Reviewed by Alex Figgis

A name synonymous with fine talent, Canada's Glass Hammer have had little, if any, coverage within the UK until now. Thanks to HM magazine, this little gem recently caught my attention and I must say that I have been greatly impressed by the band's particular brand of progressive rock. Consisting of Fred Schedule (lead and backing vocals/guitars/sitar/mandolin/flute/drums), Steve Babb (lead and backing vocals/keys/drums) and David Carter (backing vocals/guitars), it has to be said that there is a distinctively Flloydian feel to the proceedings; though this distracts very little from Glass Hammer's own unique brand of progressive rock music, as this opus clearly demonstrates. 'On To Evermore' utilises witty imagery within the context of fantastic yarn, expressing spiritual truth for those who have ears to hear; much like the parables of Jesus. The story is told of Adrianna and the sculptor, where the futile works of man are seen to have the ability to both ensnare and blind the soul and its need of a relationship with Christ. Standout tracks have to be "The Conflict", expressing the truth that 'There is a place inside everyone/An empty space that's calling for someone', complete with unashamed musical indulgence, courtesy of both guitar and synth respectively midway through; and the epic 'Junkyard Angel', an intricately moody piece, where the listener is warned of the destiny of those who fail to heed the voice of 'the Master', seeking instead that after which ultimately leads to damnation. With keen wit intact (as 'The Mayor Of Longview" clearly demonstrated), Glass Hammer's 'On To Evermore is a must for prog rockers everywhere.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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