Ozric Tentacles

Harmonic Mind Ozric Tentacles

For over forty years, Ozric Tentacles have carved out a universe entirely their own. From their roots on the UK's free festival circuit to becoming one of the defining names in experimental rock, the Ozrics have spent more than four decades charting a wonderfully offbeat course through prog, space rock, electronica and beyond, creating an instantly recognisable musical world that has inspired generations of musicians and listeners alike.

Harmonic Mind, the band's 17th studio album, is another welcome chapter in that ever-evolving story. Named after the geometric structure and harmonic nature of existence, the album sees the Ozrics once again weaving together soaring guitar melodies, intricate rhythms, lush synth textures and deep, hypnotic grooves into the kind of free-flowing psychedelic odyssey that has become their trademark.

Recorded at the band's home studios as it gradually took shape across Scotland, Devon and finally Glastonbury, Harmonic Mind also captures something a little different. Featuring the full touring line-up - including drummer Pat Garvey, bassist Corey Wallace, percussionist Paul Hankin and multi-instrumentalist Saskia Maxwell - the album has a natural energy that reflects the chemistry of the band's live performances, with each player bringing their own voice to the music.

From the driving pulse of "Guardstones" to the cosmic momentum of "Space Platform", Harmonic Mind is packed with the flowing musicianship and exploratory spirit that fans have come to expect and adore. "Malachite" pays tribute to one of Ed Wynne's favourite minerals, while also giving centre stage to his custom sandalwood acoustic from Kif Wood Guitars, complete with a beautiful malachite inlay around the sound hole. It's one of many moments that highlights the warmth and detail running throughout the album, alongside the fluid interplay between Ed Wynne's guitar and Silas Neptune's ever-shifting synth landscapes.

Produced by Ed Wynne and Silas Neptune, with mastering handled by Silas for the first time, the album feels both fresh and reassuringly familiar. Even the return of the beloved Erp on the cover art offers a knowing nod to longtime listeners. There's no radical change of direction here, just Ozric Tentacles doing what they do best.