Originally published:
“Monsters from the Id” is the logical realization of Ben Craven’s musical trajectory thus far. It’s an album of two halves, each containing a traditional progressive rock “epic” the length of a side of vinyl. The two pieces comprise flowing parts and movements with both rock and Hans Zimmer-esque orchestral arrangements, punctuated by Ben’s distinctive lead guitar and vocals. Yet the album is predominantly instrumental.
“Lyrics are incredibly important to me”, explains Craven, “but this music was not driven by words or language. It’s pure other-worldly escapism. It’s playing dress-up, wanting to make the world look much bigger than it seems right now, trying to recall the feeling that anything is possible, no matter how unlikely that might be”.
Visually, the album cover is a treat, featuring breathtaking artwork by Freyja Dean adorning the triple gatefold CD/DVD wallet. Sonically, things are equally ambitious. A 5.1 surround mix is included on the DVD, while both stereo and surround versions are available for digital download in 24-bit 96kHz high resolution.
For downloaders, Craven is offering unique optional extras he hopes will help personalize the experience. “I’ll personally dedicate and hand-sign a digital version of the album cover, creating a one-of-a-kind image. And for good measure I’ll also send you an individualized thank-you video! There are no NFTs here, just unique digital offerings for anyone who wants them. Downloading music can feel like a detached, intangible activity for both parties. This is one way of bringing the human element back into it”.
Ben Craven is a cinematic progressive rock artist from Brisbane, Australia. He likes to make records.
His 2011 album, “Great & Terrible Potions”, blurred the boundaries between conventional songs and orchestral soundtracks. Augmented by a stunning cover designed by legendary artist Roger Dean (Yes, Asia, Steve Hackett), “Potions” was dense, complicated and unashamedly pretentious. That is, everything a good prog rock album should be!
2016’s “Last Chance to Hear” was a triumphant masterpiece of progressive rock. Expanding upon Craven’s one-person musical palette, the album featured legendary Star Trek actor William Shatner providing spoken-word vocals for the track “Spy in the Sky”. Meanwhile, the album’s opener, “Critical Mass”, went on to win the 2016 Australian Independent Music Award for Best Instrumental.
“Monsters from the Id” will be released on May 6th, 2022.
Bonus DVD includes:
• main album audio in 5.1 surround (DTS 96/24)
• main album audio in high resolution stereo (24-bit PCM)
• Single Edit videos in 5.1 surround (DTS 96/24)
CD/DVD pre-order: Europe, North America, Australia.
Digital pre-order. Includes immediate download of the four “Single Edits”, here.
Tracklist:
01. Die Before You Wake [19:32]
02. Amnis Flows Aeternum [19:11]
03. Die Before You Wake (Single Edit) [4:47]
04. Wicked Delights (Single Edit) [2:40]
05. Guiding Voice (Single Edit) [3:31]
06. Amnis Flows Aeternum (Single Edit) [4:51]