The internet has enabled like minded artists to collaborate like never before. 8X8 is the transatlantic collaboration between Lane Steinberg and Ukrainian musician Alex Khodchenko. Like The Britannicas, they both live on different continents, and have never met in person, but through e-mail they’ve managed to create an amazing work of musical art. This is the best prog/psychedelic pop I’ve heard in a long time.
Bringing forth influences from Todd Rundgren, The Zombies, The Beach Boys and Procol Harum, it requires multiple listens – but it really sticks. Opening with “Fantastic Sun” it’s the most immediate and catchy track with a rich layered musical palette. The vocal harmonies are transcendental here and continue on “Layabout” and “Time And Tender Love.” Even Colin Blunstone would be impressed by the swirling “Live in Dreamland.” This isn’t simply music you listen to – you let it wash over you like lush warm breeze. Good headphones are a must for this material. Many other highlights include the epic melodies of “Snowflake In The Rain” and “Sweetness In Your Life.” Credit also must go to Gregory White on a variety of keys (Hammond organ, mellotron, etc.), Rebecca Ona (backing vocals) and Rick R. (drums). Easily makes my top ten list for 2012, and will remain on my ipod for a long, long time.
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I hardly drop comments, however after looking at a few of the remarks on this page Eight by Eight “The Anatomy Of An Apricot” | Powerpopholic. I actually do have some questions for you if it’s okay. Could it be only me or does it appear like a few of these remarks come across as if they are written by brain dead folks? 😛 And, if you are writing at other places, I would like to keep up with you. Could you post a list of all of your shared sites like your twitter feed, Facebook page or linkedin profile?