When the dust of creative silence settles, true artists emerge with renewed vigor. Such is the case with Believe, the Polish progressive rock powerhouse led by former Collage guitarist Mirek Gil, who have broken their seven-year hiatus with their latest masterpiece, "The Wyrding Way." The album, featuring their compelling new single "Shine," demonstrates not just evolution, but a complete metamorphosis of their signature sound.
Established in Warsaw in 2004, Believe has consistently pushed the boundaries of progressive rock, building upon Gil's legendary status from his Collage days. However, this latest offering transcends their previous work, incorporating elements that feel both nostalgic and groundbreaking.
The band's current lineup reads like a progressive rock dream team. Jinian Wilde, whose credentials include notable collaborations with David Cross of King Crimson fame, brings his distinctive vocals and innovative approach to harmonies. The way he layers vocal arrangements on "The Wyrding Way" evokes comparisons to both The Beatles and Queen, yet maintains its unique character.
"Several dreams came true on this album," shares Mirek Gil, his enthusiasm palpable. "One of them was recording with a string quartet, arranged by our beloved Satomi." This addition bookends the album, creating a sophisticated framework that elevates the entire listening experience. The strings aren't merely decorative; they're integral to the album's narrative arc.
The rhythm section, featuring new drummer Maciej Caputa and bassist Przemysław "Przemas" Zawadzki, brings a refined sensibility to the compositions. Caputa's approach, in particular, has shifted the band's dynamic toward a more jazz-influenced territory, without sacrificing the progressive rock foundation that fans have come to expect. His piano solo in "Shadowland" serves as a testament to his versatility as a musician.
The album's production, handled by the sought-after Marcin Buzniak, achieves a remarkable balance between clarity and warmth. Each instrument occupies its own space in the mix, creating a rich tapestry of sound that rewards repeated listening. The attention to detail is particularly evident in how the string quartet integrates with the band's core sound.
"Shine," the album's latest single, exemplifies the band's evolved approach. The track builds gradually, incorporating Satomi's elegant violin work with Gil's tasteful guitar phrases. Wilde's vocals soar above the instrumentation, his harmonies adding layers of emotional depth that recall the best of progressive rock's golden era while firmly placing the song in contemporary territory.
The album's track listing might seem sparse at first glance – five tracks in total – but don't let that fool you. With compositions extending well beyond traditional song lengths, including the epic "Hold On" which clocks in at over 20 minutes, "The Wyrding Way" offers more than an hour of meticulously crafted music.
Looking back at their previous release, 2017's "Seven Widows," which garnered significant critical acclaim, one can trace the band's artistic evolution. While that album established Believe as a force to be reckoned with in the progressive rock scene, "The Wyrding Way" feels like the culmination of everything they've been working toward.
The artwork, created by Alek Januszewski, perfectly complements the music's atmospheric quality. It's a visual representation of the album's themes, adding another layer to the overall experience.
For long-time followers of the Polish progressive rock scene, the album represents more than just new material – it's a statement of artistic intent. Believe has managed to honor their roots while pushing forward into uncharted territory. The influence of Gil's work with Collage is still present, but it's merely one color in a much broader palette.
As progressive rock continues to evolve in the modern era, "The Wyrding Way" stands as a testament to the genre's enduring ability to surprise and innovate. It's an album that demands attention, rewards patience, and ultimately delivers an experience that transcends the sum of its parts.
The future of progressive rock often seems uncertain in an age of diminishing attention spans and algorithmic playlists. However, bands like Believe remind us why the genre remains vital. "The Wyrding Way" isn't just an album – it's a journey, a statement, and most importantly, a triumph of artistic vision over commercial convenience.
For those seeking to experience this musical odyssey firsthand, "The Wyrding Way" is available now through Mystic Production, offering both physical and digital formats for discerning listeners. It's an album that not only meets the high expectations set by their previous work but exceeds them in ways both subtle and profound.