Martin Haggarty:
Musician - Singer/songwriter
[Formerly of Long Earth & Field of Vision]
“What a beautiful album and it’s even better than its excellent, debut predecessor. I’ve only played it three times but I know it’s one of those albums that will reward repeated listening. All involved can be very proud.”
David Knapp:
Supporter/customer
“This album, ‘Changes’ carries on the path that was travelled by ‘Airwaves’ and expands on it. A couple of listenings is required, which is the least that you can do with this gem. It entranced me and as did their debut, taking me back to the great days of the 70’s, stirring memories of early Genesis, Yes and ELP.
Good vocally with the guest artists enhancing the core music, giving it freshness and a well-balanced soul; a special mention for the soprano saxophone of Kim Cypher evoking memories of Barbara Thompson. The sympathetic percussion lines are perfect and well-placed in the mix that pervades the whole production.
A masterpiece.”
Kim Cypher:
Musician
“An absolute honour and pleasure to be part of this awesome album! I loved adding some soaring soprano sax to the track 'Hotel'. Thank you.”
Nick Redfern:
Supporter/custome
“I’ve had ‘Changes’ for a few days now. I’ve listened to it a few times, and I have to say it’s rather good! The band have used a variety of guest musicians to enhance and the develop the sound of the band. Whilst Kym’s vocals, Carleton’s keyboards and Trev’s bass remain at the heart of the band, the guitarists and saxophone give added depth and variety throughout.
Once again Amanda Lehmann’s contribution to the project on ‘All Told’ cannot go unmentioned, neither can the gloriously haunting saxophone of Kim Cypher on ‘Hotel’. ‘Changes’ represents a natural progression from the debut album ‘Airwaves’. It’s unashamedly prog, gloriously symphonic and representative of the changes and turmoil REP have undergone over the past twelve months. The whole album is a triumphant ‘Phoenix from the ashes’ rebirth and reincarnation.
It's fabulous!"
© Jo Kendall
Associate Editor @ PROG
“A bit Bowie-ish I thought…”
Garry Foster
Presenter on 101.8 WCR FM
Wolverhampton Local Radio
“I like that, I really do” (On ‘Gates’)
TBC
“A follow-up to the REP debut album (Airwaves) and often referred to as 'the difficult second', the only difficulty seems to be finding some flaw or fault (not that I'm trying) alas, after my third listen none are obvious. This is at times atmospheric, symphonic and captivating while bringing a little jazz nuance (not just for the inclusion of soprano saxophone) here and there. The opening three tracks (Changes 1,2 and 3) were enough to convince me this will enjoy high rotation.
This first arrival of new 2025 music has set the bar high for what is to come. Many thanks for their expediency in dealing with the order.”
Colin Logue
Melbourne, Australia
Received this about a week ago and it's been on high-rotation since.
Tracks one to three (CHANGES part 1-3) segue seamlessly and present an epic of incredible sounds given there are only three instruments in use. Trev Turley on bass, Glen Buck on Drums and Carleton Van Selman plays keyboards. At times one is convinced a guitar and other instruments are heard but none of the guests appear on these tracks bar drummer Glen Buck. Only assumption is that the keyboards must have a very comprehensive bank of sounds and utilised expertly. The core band of Turley and Van Selman is completed by vocalist Kym Blackman.
CRY is the fourth track and includes Andrew Walker on guitar. There seems something so familiar happening here but for the life of me I can't fathom it out. Feels as though I've heard it before but absolutely nothing comes to mind. It continues in the same vein as the opening three with that very listenable symphonic and atmospheric styling.
Amanda Lehmann (guitar) guests on ALL TOLD and did so on their debut ‘Airwaves’ but provided vocals too on that occasion.
Kim Cypher (soprano saxophone) on HOTEL and embellishes this 'jazz inflected' track.
Two other guest guitarists - Owen Barry on GATES and Mark Howes on GAME and MOJO KING - add to the superb musicianship of the core band in the same manner as all the 'well chosen' guests.
GATES provides Kym Blackman's best vocal alongside Trev Turley's best bass performance - this one must have been special to them both!
MOJO KING ends the 'Changes' album which, with any justice, should be earmarked for 'end-of-year' listings.
A bonus track 'CHRISTMAS SONG' rounds out a wonderful listening experience and so pleased they decided to include it.
Highly recommended.”
Steve Rogers
New Zealand
“First listen: Exquisite interweaving of sound. I especially like the two suites - deeply engaging music full of subtlety and nuance without being overly dense. Will take much listening to fully explore.
Bass about 1 min 30 sec in on ‘Game’ a perfect example of what you leave out is as important as what you put in - simple, but absolutely perfect. Loving the increasing presence of synth in all its waveforms.
Congratulations to all on stage two of the evolution of REP.”
Victor Oldenhof:
Supporter/customer
Holland
“My initial impression is really positive, enjoying the second half more so, especially the melodic track ‘Hotel’ with that great sax solo; it really jumps out. First impressions are important, but repeated listening, with full attention, is essential.”
Graham Chapman:
Supporter/customer
“What a cracking album all the way through! The music flows and the musicianship is wonderful. A must have.”