Ahoy Me Matey's
Ooh, there’s lovely! Multi-instrumentalist Frank Bossert’s Eureka’s project tells the story of Sir Ernie Shackleton’s Antarctica expedition which took place over the years 1914-1916. I can think of better things to base a concept album on, particularly a notable event at occurring at the same time...
Sir Ernest Shackleton and his team of men set out to conquer the Antarctic continent as the world became embroiled in World War One.All but forgotten back home in Britain, Shackleton's expedition drifted with the ice for nearly two years. Facing hunger, loneliness, near-mutiny and what has come to be known as the greatest small-boat journey in history, this is their story.
Even though Prog is my cup of tea, ‘Shackleton’s Voyage’ certainly tests my mettle for my love of all things prog. First impressions are of a mish mash of prog styles thrown into the mixing bowl; influences rain thick and fast from Pink Floyd, touches of Gabriel era Genesis, Prog Meisters Yes, and a bit of Mike Oldfield to boot. The Yes influence is intentional as Bossert has brought in Billy Sherwood who brings his vocal style to ‘The Challenge’ and ‘Coming Home’.
Along with Sherwood, ‘SV’ features other illustrious guests. Yogi Lang of RWPL mixed and mastered the album and contributed a Moog solo to ‘Heading South’. British actor Ian Dickinson narrates the icy tale. The CD cover’s artwork and booklet contains original pics from the expedition. ‘The Challenge ’ takes its lead from Peter Gabriel, in fact, tonight Matthew, I, Billy Sherwood, you get it! Shackleton’s Voyage is also heavily focused on the works by Mike Oldfield. Its a strong mix of very atmospheric instrumental track interwoven with narrative from Dickinson and vocal compositions. Bossert mixes more traditional progressive music together with synthesised and Celtic themes, bringing in bagpipes and flutes into ‘Departure’.
Ive only got the promo CD, but hopefully the version for sale will have a really interesting booklet outlining the expedition and its compulsive storyline, as the album certainly acts as a soundtrack to a bigger picture. Without any info, Eureka have captured the feel of the voyage and it is made very easy for the listener to be drawn into the piece; picturing the actual events is inevitable if you give it a good listen.
Shackleton’s Voyage can seem a bit heavy going at time but I can assure you that its worth taking a punt and seeing it through. It's one which gets better with repeat listenings.