Name: The BBC Sessions
Brand: The Utopia Strong

Bonus disc

Bonus disc: No

Catalogue number

LAUNCH346

Colour

Black

Colour details

Discogs ID

Format multiplier

Download code

Download code: No

Rough Trade Exclusive

Rough Trade Exclusive: No

Extended format

Extended format: No

Format detail

Format Music GB

Limited edition

Release date

2024-03-22

Signed copies

Signed copies: No

Supplier GB

Cargo

Tax rate GB

Standard:20

UPC / Barcode

5056321673237

Total Cap

Black LP

LAUNCH346CD

5056321673244

Artist

The Utopia Strong

Genre GB

Psychedelic

Label GB

Rocket Recordings

The Utopia Strong is a British prog-electronica trio that combines elements of progressive rock and electronic music to create a unique and captivating sound. With their innovative approach to music, they have gained a loyal following and critical acclaim. Their dynamic performances and experimental compositions make them stand out in the music industry.
Formed by three talented musicians, The Utopia Strong brings together their diverse backgrounds and influences to create an immersive musical experience. Their fusion of genres creates a sonic landscape that takes listeners on a journey through time and space.
With their thought-provoking lyrics and intricate instrumentals, The Utopia Strong pushes the boundaries of what is possible in music. Their passion for innovation shines through in every note, making them a must-listen for fans of progressive rock and electronic music alike.

Rocket Recordings is a UK based independent record label that has been running successfully under the guidance of Chris Reeder and John O'Carroll. With their combined expertise and passion for music, they have curated an impressive roster of artists spanning various genres. Known for their commitment to quality and innovation, Rocket Recordings continues to push boundaries in the music industry.

Since its inception, Rocket Recordings has been dedicated to supporting emerging talent and providing a platform for unique voices in the music scene. Their diverse catalogue showcases a wide range of musical styles, from psychedelic rock to experimental electronic sounds.

With a reputation for discovering groundbreaking artists before they hit the mainstream, Rocket Recordings has become synonymous with cutting-edge music. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting your journey into independent music, this label offers an unparalleled selection of releases that are sure to captivate and inspire.

Newest Listed Items

The history of BBC Maida Vale Sessions is familiar to The Utopia Strong. As musicians, and lifelong music fans, the legacy - the importance - of such recordings is not lost on them. Space and place influence creativity, as is the case here, and the sleeve is a loving homage to those classic BBC releases, affectionately&nbsp; nodding to Strange Fruit Peel Sessions from days of yore. These pieces, originally recorded live at Maida Vale for a Marc Riley session on BBC 6 Music in September 2022, capture The Utopia Strong stretching themselves and continuing to develop their aural explorations. The five-track album opens with the analogue arpeggios of ‘Minature Citadels’, a title perfectly summing up the imagery provoked by the music; evolving, jagged patterns of skylines and castellations, turrets and towers. The closing outro of squarks and drones could be twice as long and not outstay its welcome.

The nagging refrain running through ‘Lamp Of Glory’ is Mike York on the pipes, which he handmakes himself. The overall effect is a sublime, warped concoction of balearic energy and non-Western modes. ‘Disaster 2’ (a piece initially recorded on their second studio album, 2022’s International Treasure) begins with a beautiful synth drone that maintains its position, overpowering the modular patterns pulsating behind it, augmented by yet more glorious, lamenting pipes. The last two tracks both exceed ten minutes and allow the band to extend out further. Release comes as the drums kick in after six minutes of ‘The Tower Is Locked’, emulating the&nbsp;live sets The Utopia Strong have become famed for.The final track, ‘Weather All’, was also honed across several live performances. Having been booked for Andrew Weatherall’s Conveanza festival pre-lockdown, the band finally performed there in September 2022, following his passing. While performing this piece, the heavens opened and the entire festival, band and audience, were drenched. “It felt absolutely biblical”, says the band. Steve Davis has a rich history with the Beeb, but on this occasion he is wrangling his ever-expanding array of analogue synths, dilating his musical imagination. The heritage of the location and overall experience was not lost on the band.

The BBC Sessions 

Music GB

Discover The BBC Sessions by The Utopia Strong. A sublime vinyl album capturing their aural explorations, influenced by the iconic BBC Maida Vale Sessions. Label: Rocket Recordings.