Floating Worlds share new concept album

Floating Worlds is a progressive rock outfit with roots stretching back to the late 90s who’ve enjoyed a successful musical adventure with their atmospheric and story-driven sound. Formed by longtime friends Andreas V. on guitar and Vagelis Lekos on bass, the band has weathered numerous lineup changes, evolving their sound and identity over the years.

The first taste of their shared sonic vision came with the release of their debut album, Only A Dream, Can Kill A Dream… in 2007. Since then, Floating Worlds has expanded their musical output, releasing several albums and touring across Europe while steadily building a dedicated following during which founding member Vagelis departed and was replaced by singer J. Soti with Mike Papadopoulos joining on bass.

Their latest album, Skywatcher, released in June of this year, was forged during the band’s creative spree during the pandemic. This ten-track concept album is a stunning showcase of their storytelling through music, blending prog rock with cinematic elements to create an immersive listening experience throughout. The album recounts the poignant tale of Winston Smith, a nine-year-old boy who embarks on a cosmic journey in search of his lost father, a story narrated by the famous journalist Paul Rogers.

The story develops through a series of strange and mysterious events, resulting in Winston’s disappearance one autumn night, leaving listeners to ponder whether he finally reunited with his father somewhere in the distant reaches of the universe. The record also presents a departure from Floating Worlds’ earlier work, as the band ventures into new sonic spheres to match the album’s sci-fi context via influences of 80s and 90s science fiction movies.

Opened with “Strange Kid,” the stuttered rhythm of buzzy synth tones and lively vocalisations launches into a grooving, funk rock style sound driven by punching drums and capped by expressive vocal leads. Packed full of memorable vocal hooks and a shifting arrangement of vibrant instrumental elements, it’s an energising jam that grabs your attention and sets up the thrilling ride the album offers.

“Starlight Wish” follows with the strike of drums, the stab of a bass synth and airy top line flutters. With more restrained vocal performance, the band casts a gripping sound that rises to anthemic heights as intricate guitar lines snake alongside the bright vocal leads that continue the story of Winston Smith’s adventure.

With “Parade,” forms an atmospheric sound of distant instrumental echoes before the energy gradually swells with the crunch of electric guitar and pound of drums. With a downtempo energy, commanding vocals with overlapping layers inject bold melodic elements resulting in an enthralling slice of theatrical rock music.

Other highlights on the album include tracks like “Hello from out There” where bouncy bass line and shuffling drums set up a fiercely rhythm sound that builds with intense synth sweeps and slick guitar riffs. With compelling vocal work riding above the grooving sound, it’s a catchy and truly epic song that keeps the energy up.

“In the Dark” slows things down with an eerie soundscape of pulsing synth tones and haunting sonic textures before the rattle of percussive shots adds a steady rhythm. Progressing with driving synth elements and melodic bass lines, powerful vocals glide in to complete the dark and moody sound to offer a stand out moment on the release.

Closing the LP with “Extraterrestrial,” hazy radio transmissions and delicate instrumental flutters form a cinematic blend that flows into a spectacular instrumental that puts the band’s extraordinary musicianship on full display. Crashing drums, robust rhythms, synths and soaring guitar leads collide to deliver a rousing finale to the sensational new record from Floating Worlds.

Listen to Skywatcher below