Track Of The Day: The Lucid Dream - Zenith (parts 1 and 2)

Formed in 2008 and causing a stir since their 2013 debut 'Songs Of Lies And Deceit', Carlisle four piece The Lucid Dream suffered a cruel blow early last year in 2017 when all of their equipment was stolen following a gig in Paris. Some would've conceded defeat or had their momentum severely damaged during these difficult days for musicians, but instead the band ploughed on, as their fanbase raised £10,000 to finance some new gear. Fourth album 'Actualisation' is startling.

On the superb 'Zenith' the pulse of intricate analog rhythms gradually form a disciplined pattern topped with sirens and searing electronic notes, before kicking into a Madchester groove topped with licks of fat bass, atmospheric guitars, and the welcome offer of a melodica solo. Immediately launching into its lysergic vocal-topped second half, it dazzles with its house piano and addictive rhythm. Frontman Mark Emmerson explained "The track was the first one written and recorded for the new album and was hugely influenced by acid house, alongside the early Heavenly Recordings works. It’s an amalgamation of the influences of house, dub, hip-hop (certainly in the drums and 808), and is the second installment of a two-part opus. Somehow, we’ve managed to streamline it into a 2.5 minute pop song (in the right manner).”

Rebuilding their sound around the essence of their previous output, resilience, defiance, reinvention and momentum have produced one of 2018's greatest records. The Lucid Dream have turned a major setback into a triumph. Read the full review HERE.