CD – A Record of the Unworldly and the Strange
£10.00
Long awaited studio album from progressive rock outfit Gil Galad, formed in County Durham in 1979.
Inspired by John Walker, entrepreneur and chemist credited with the invention of the friction match, the album weaves a wonderful story of truth, myth and legend.
This limited edition CD launch version comes in beautifully presented packaging featuring original artwork with lyric booklet.
- A Record of the Unworldly and the Strange
- Restless River
- Welcome to the Show
- Like a Ghost
- Turn on the Light
- I am the Fire
- Too Late
- Empty Space.
- Bright Light Leaving
- Walker's End?
Long awaited studio album from progressive rock outfit Gil Galad, formed in County Durham in 1979.
Inspired by John Walker, entrepreneur and chemist from Stockton On Tees the album weaves a wonderful story of truth, myth and legend.
This limited edition CD launch version comes in beautifully presented packaging with lyric booklet.
“An Ingenious Man”
The new Album takes as its starting theme, the historic truth of John Walker’s time in Stockton-on-Tees and his invention of the friction match. He is portrayed in our story as a complex and conflicted man, a man of ideas and insight beyond his time – an ingenious man!
And so, the idea developed… Many historical and literary figures emerged during Walker’s lifetime, characters seeming to possess a clarity of vision beyond the realms of many, moulding the future from steel, and iron and coal. Futures never before imagined brought to life by uncanny abilities…
Is this where the story starts?
Gordon Syd Lewis –
Brilliant
Sarah –
I love all these songs very nice indeed,complete masterpiece, reminds me if War of the Worlds soundtrack
Billy Surgeoner (verified owner) –
From the dramatic opening you can tell you’re in for some surprises. The playing is great throughout, solid drumming, lots of melodic guitar-work and interesting synth lines and keyboard pads. I was also very impressed with the soundscapes that form a kind of backdrop for the album.
The narration puts me in mind of a few different albums, Jeff Wayne‘s, “War of the Worlds”, Rick Wakeman’s “Journey to the Centre of the Earth” and the lesser known sidelong epic “In Held ‘Twas In I” from Procol Harum’s second album, Shine On Brightly. But none of those can boast having a narration with a strong north Durham accent!
The song-writing is strong too, Restless River is one of my favourites, it has a hint of Genesis, mainly in the keyboards and a slight Pink Floyd vibe. Great chorus too.
Turn On the Lights is what I would call a great Prog Pop song, a very catchy chorus and superb double harmony guitar-work.
The moody, introspective Too Late has some nice touches, this song has, for me, the best vocal melody and performance. Very poignant.
The album finishes with the very upbeat Walker’s End, mainly instrumental, again with some excellent guitar playing.
It’s hard to believe that this is Gil Galad’s first album, it sounds like a band at the top of their game, mature and full of integrity.
Go on, have a listen, it’s well worth it.
Alan Kennedy –
During the past year (the time I have known Paul) I have witnessed first hand the the the time and effort Paul and the guys have out in to make this album…an album of such professionalism and quality. The music is wonderful and so immersive. You don’t just listen to this music you become absorbed and drawn inwherebit triggers your imagination. It is a wonderful piece of musical artistry. Well done you guys. I am looking forward to the next album?
Brian Hurrell –
Excellent album, bonkers and absorbing story telling, great musicianship and production. Shades of Big Big Train and Camel, but totally unique. It needs to be played from beginning to end and on a decent hi fi! I hope Gil Galad is justly proud of this!
Mike Pryor –
This came out of left field for me, and what a surprise – an album celebrating one of the unsung heroes of modern life, John Walker. It is almost impossible to overstate the significance of his 1826 invention of the Friction Match on society across the world.
Having researched Walker a lot I was firstly intrigued and then swept along by the narrative behind these beautifully crafted songs and tunes, telling Walker’s story in a new, creative and at times unexpected way.
The quality of the composition, playing and recording is superb.
I particularly liked the voices – narrator, singers and BVs – right up my alley.
A fine piece of work, time to listen to it again.
Vic –
A fascinating story brought to life in a unique way, attention to detail in everything was flawless…the music has a way of conveying the story of the song brilliantly … .loved the piano…. Looking forward to hearing how the story develops.
Robert Rayner –
This fine album chronicles the life,times and imagined interior world of John Walker – a figure neglected by history.
The rich, melodic music embellishes the tale to an epic narrative.
With nods to the progressive rock of my youth, particularly Genesis, I really enjoy listening to it.
Ian Cap (verified owner) –
This is simply a brilliant album. It’s like members of Pink Floyd, Yes, and ELP were tasked with scoring a musical written by Terry Pratchett and directed by Terry Gilliam. Full of whimsy and wonder, but also masterfully composed and executed, this really does transport you into the world that the band has created. Also, I must note the wonderful idea for the packaging: by using a book-shaped case, they tell you right off the bat that this is a story you’re going to experience, not just an album. From top to bottom, an enjoyable and unique listening experience, one that everyone should have!
Katherine Deary (verified owner) –
Prog rock at its finest. Shades of early Genesis also Pink Floyd and Yes. Gorgeous vocals and music. Very atmospheric, richly layered, absorbing and intriguing. CD booklet and artwork is a bonus. Highly recommended.
Patrick Hurley –
As the owner of an Anglo-French internet radio station based in France, every week I am faced with the daunting task of trawling through hundreds of tracks to select the following week’s playlists.
Some are good, some average, and the rest…well, easy to exclude.
Every once in a while an album comes along and blows me away… That’s what happened with Gil Galad’s ‘Record Of The Unworldly and Strange’
Through ten tracks of beautifully produced progressive rock music, the album tells the story of the inventor of the friction match, John Walker, and takes the listener on an exquisite and magical soundscape through the intricacies of his emotions.
As someone who grew up with the progressive music of the seventies, I can say that this album has everything, from beautifully crafted guitars and keyboards through expressive and solid drumming to magnificent vocals and narration.
Thoroughly recommanded. Well done guys!!
Steve Reeder –
Slightly late to the party despite knowing two of the band members….
Wow… blown away with the storytelling and music! The narration for me is in the style of the War of the Worlds and definitely adds to the Unworldly Vibe of the album which is so immersive especially if listened to via headphones… there is so much depth that you may not appreciate it fully on your first listening.
Having read the outline for the second incarnation of the tale… Imaginarium I can’t wait to hear more!!
Congrats all round fellas!!!