Caligula’s Horse, the Australian prog band, has returned with their sixth studio album, “Charcoal Grace”, as a quartet since their guitarist Adrian Goleby is not part of the band anymore. Hence, Sam Vallen has taken care of all the guitars on the new album. “Charcoal Grace” reflects the pervasive sense of despair caused by the pandemic that has affected the band and society at large in recent years. The album confronts the challenges and aftermath of this time, aiming for catharsis and a shift towards a brighter future. The album also features guest appearances by Kate Derepas on cello (tracks 1, 3, 4, 6, 9), Sophie Willis (Valhalore) on clarinet (tracks 1, 3, 4, 6, 9) & flute (tracks 1, 3, 4, 6, 9), Samuel Andrews on violin (tracks 1, 3, 4, 6, 9), and Victoria Taylor on trumpet (tracks 3, 4, 6).
Musically, the band seems to be pushing their boundaries in different directions, as there are modern as well as various neo-prog, atmospheric, and classic prog elements. The music is influenced by acts like Haken, Pain of Salvation, Leprous, Marillion, Porcupine Tree, Karnivool, Periphery, TesseracT, and Dream Theater, but still contains a personal character without losing the CH trademark. The production is full, powerful, and modern. Personally, I’d prefer the vocals to be a bit higher in the mix. The album was engineered, mixed, and produced by guitarist Sam Vallen and mastered by Forrester Savell (Chaos Divine, Sanctium, Make Them Suffer, etc.).
The album kicks off strongly with the 10-minute “The World Breathes with Me” and continues in the same vein with the modern prog-djent “Golem”. Then comes the “Charcoal Grace” suite, which is divided into four parts, each representing a different stage of transition: “Prey” (a modern, intense, and partly atmospheric track), “A World Without” (a moody & melancholic song), “Vigil” (an atmospheric piece), and “Give Me Hell” (a heavy & melodic song). “Sails” is an amazing atmospheric ballad that shows a more emotional side of the band, reminiscent of the late 90’s and early 00’s prog rock/metal days. “The Stormchaser” has some intense parts as well as some atmospheric ones that make it fascinating at long last. The album closes with the 12-minute opus “Mute”… a prog gem that features complex and diverse arrangements, atmospheric parts, stunning vocal harmonies, impressive guitar solos, and a dramatic climax. What a way to conclude the album! It will surely take several listens to fully comprehend its artistic and emotional depth.
“Charcoal Grace” is a captivating and imposing album that showcases the musical and lyrical maturity and creativity of Caligula’s Horse. Whether you are a longtime fan of the band or a newcomer to their music, “Charcoal Grace” deserves your attention. Lay back, put on your headphones, and let the music transport you to the depths of the human psyche.
