Almost five years after “Haydenspark”, the Finnish progsters Overhead return with a new double album, “Telepathic Minds”, that includes ten tracks and lasts about 90 minutes! That’s a bold choice for any band out there… to produce a lengthy album in our day, cuz music has evolved into something similar to “fast streaming music” for the listeners. Easy come easy go… with songs you listen to now but forget about after a few hours, and so on.
The new album also features two new members, Janne Katalkin on bass and Jere Saarainen on keyboards, apart from the driving force behind the band, Alex Keskitalo (vocals, flute), Jaakko Kettunen (guitars) and Ville Sjöblom (drums). Kettunen also plays the keys on “Sail Across the Universe” and “Sheep Stay Silent”.
Musically the band embellishes prog rock music with classical, folk, pop, jazz, metal, and atmospheric, psychedelic, and experimental elements. The band’s ability to perfectly blend various music genres demonstrates their musical skills and creativity. The final outcome is unique and very intriguing. The lyrics on “Telepathic Minds” are introspective and thought-provoking, delving into deep philosophical and existential themes. Moreover, the production is powerful, clear, and full, with plenty of room for each instrument and vocal line to shine. The mix is well-balanced, allowing the listener to fully appreciate the band’s performances. The instrumentation is diverse and expertly done. The album was produced, recorded and mixed by Jaakko Kettunen and Alex Keskitalo, while the mastering was done by the renowned Svante Forsbäck (Rammstein, Delain, Conception, Evergrey, Lordi, etc.). Alex also did the booklet design and artwork. I especially like the paintings that relate to the lyrics on each track.
The album starts nicely with “War to End All Wars”, which is a melodious track that has a memorable chorus. “Ghosts from the Future”, is an atmospheric and mesmerizing track that showcases the band’s ability to blend different genres seamlessly. It lasts a little less than 13 minutes, and it is separated in 5 parts. This song has some hauntingly beautiful melodies and intricate instrumentation. One of the album’s highlights, for sure. “Sail Across the Universe” is a powerful track with a modern vibe. A nice change in pace that I didn’t expect to be honest. However, it blends well with the flute, evoking memories of the old prog days. Alex Keskitalo’s vocals are fantastic, as is Jaakko Kettunen’s guitar solo. “The Pilot’s Not Fit to Fly”, is a soothing song with a big chorus; the soaring vocals, the strong melodies, the nice drumming, the intricate guitar work along with the superb flute solo make it stand out. A hell of a song! “Sleep Tight Sweetheart” is a psychedelic pop/rock track with some striking guitars leads.
The second album kicks out with the 17-minute-long title track “Telepathic Minds”! A mind-bending journey into the depths of the human psyche… a prog rock masterpiece with shifting time signatures, complex arrangements, and virtuosic performances. The bluesy solo before the end is spectacular. For some reason, it reminded me of the one and only Gary Moore! The listener is led on a trip through the complexity of the human mind as the music progresses. “Tuesday That Never Came” is an emotive, moody song with a sentimental and dramatic tone. “Planet of Disorder” is an intense track with a hard rock riff, suitable usage of flute, and a terrific guitar rockin’ solo. “Sheep Stay Silent” keeps rocking hard with a prog twist. The Heavy riffs and the imposing atmosphere are attempting to awaken all the “sheep that are sleeping merrily”. “Almost Always Near the End” concludes the album pleasantly, leaving the listeners with a sense of hope and optimism.
As a whole, “Telepathic Minds” is a breathtaking musical experience that demands multiple listens to fully appreciate its depth and complexity. The band’s ability to perfectly blend various music genres showcases their musical skills and creativity. The final outcome is unique and very intriguing. The album immerses the listener in cosmic soundscapes, demonstrating the band’s versatility and inspiration. So, don’t hesitate to dive into this musical journey and let your mind be telepathically transported to new dimensions of sound and emotion. Don’t miss out on this prog rock gem. This album is a serious contender for the album of the year!
