The Tirith are a cult prog rock band from the 1970’s that have— somehow — found themselves torn from the space-time continuum and transported (perhaps unwillingly) into the 21st century.
The band first appeared in Loughborough, Leicestershire UK in 1971 — where they originally were known as “ Minas Tirith”.
After spacetime disruption, they have reformed in 2015 as a three piece group. And have renamed themselves Tirith. They also have an album out titled ‘Tales From The Tower.’
The current lineup is Tim Cox (guitars), Dick Cory (bass and vocals), and Carl Nightingale (drums.)
Tim Cox (producer, songwriter, musician and guitar player) has had a long, varied and distinguished career in the music industry. He wrote and produced “Everybody’s Free (To Feel Good)” the 1991 song by Zambian-born singer Rozalla.
Founding member Dick Cory plays bass and acoustic guitar and handles the vocals. Dick is best known for his ambient music recorded under the name “Trace Melon”.
Carl Nightingale joined The Tirith in June 2012. Before this, Carl was with “Gatecrasher” for 15 years — considered to be one of the greatest rock covers bands playing the UK Midlands circuit.
This album — Tales From the Tower — was written during The Tirith’s first incarnation in the 1970’s. The band decided that they wanted the music to be released… Especially after the years of experience they have built-up (individually) in their different genres. They already have enough material for the next studio album.
We had a listen to Tales From the Tower :
Starting with the spacious and sleek “Farewell Fair Laurien” — this is wonderful opener.
A ribbon of synth rides a crest of superb rhythms as a fearless voice leads us — open-eyed — into a wonderful world of faultless guitars and smart-dark and persuasive percussion. There’s a catchy motif too! This is an excellent multi-toned fountain of inventive musical ideas. And thoroughly enjoyable too.
‘Gin’ has expressive guitar-forms that flow along the upper sides of the boogie-fantasy riffs.
The vocal is articulate and extraordinarily detailed. This is a rocky rebel rouser.
If you loved the expressive energy that rumbled up your heart on the classic “Roundabout” (Yes) then it is quite certain that you will be very keen on this too. It has an inebriating energy and a joyful yet calm determination to get the job done. The intricate lead guitar is exceptionally engaging and will set your heart on fire.
‘Laurelae’ seems more ethereal. With vapoured-string sounds that are almost transparent against the vocals and the magical weave of the central waltzing core.
Translucent clearwings of absorbent synth light up the whole piece. Then golden guitars burst out. This has beauty in abundance.
‘The Daughter of the Water’ is progressive folk with sparkling guitars and power chords. Very reminiscent of Uriah Heep.
‘Gazing at Stars’ lopes like a wounded gazelle. The vocals are clear and puissant. Reminding us of Curt Smith (Tears for Fears.)
Guitars build-up valiantly and the ribald bass gurgles and belches. But, for the most part, this is an ever- growing power ballad. With incredible guitar strips that illuminate a blackened sky-door to beckon us in. The sounds illuminate the path ahead… Leading to a sensational climax.
This will satisfy all prog-rock fans. But will be of particular interest to all those who enjoy prog-rock with a hard crust and a deep tremor in its heart.
Words: @neilmach 2015 ©
The Tirith’s album “Tales From The Tower” is now available for pre-order on Bandcamp, with “Gin Lil” streaming at https://thetirith.bandcamp.com/album/tales-from-the-tower
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