SPARKLANDS – Tomocyclus (2013)

* the Real one : only for 24hs

New Dutch band SPARKLANDS will have their debut CD “Tomocyclus” released next September 20 via Avenue Of Allies records. Founded by brothers Thomas Riekerk (vocals) y Robert Riekerk (guitars, keyboards) the guys deliver a mixture classic AOR sounds influenced by the likes of Toto, Richard Marx or Bad English with a modern production akin Work Of Art and similar new Scandinavian acts from the genre.

Music was everything for the Riekerk bros when they grew up in the Netherlands and AOR was Thomas’ first love. Band posters of Bad English, Giant, Toto and Foreigner were all over the walls of their rooms and in every corner there were guitars and amps.
Over the years Thomas was part of many different bands like Beam, who signed with a major label and recorded an album quite successful in the Netherlands. Also both brothers worked with AOR artist Ralph Van Manen on his very good album Face The Feeling co-writing several tracks and featuring Robert on guitar and Thomas singing background vocals.
Many years and projects later the time had come for Thomas to become the front man of his own band and to start telling his own story. For this new venture has chosen the name Sparklands, and together with Robert he gathered some befriended producers and musicians, like Simon Gitsels (Van Velzen), Minco Eggersman and Martijn Groeneveld (producer of Blaudzun), starting the writing and recording sessions for “Tomocyclus” last year.

The guys worked hard on getting that traditional ’80s sound by using a lot of vintage gear, and they have created a truly enjoyable record rich in big hooky guitar riffs, huge rhythm section and multi-layered harmonies through this tasteful collection of songs bringing back the days of bands like Boulevard, Saga, Mr. Mister, Bad English and Giant.
Sparklands’ stylings are indeed focused specifically in the ’87-’91 years of the the genre, where polish and luxury were the rule.
All starts with the solid “The Game”, a clear statement of intention from Sparklands and their love for classy AOR build over a hooky rhythm and an extremely catchy chorus. Same happens with the bouncy “Skyline” featuring a superb refrain flooded by wonderful synths.

If you play classic AOR, you need a track sporting a female name. We have the soaring “Joanne”, very very Toto inspired where the vocals shine and the atmosphere is cleverly crafted.
Then follows the uptempo melodic rocker “Oasis”, the harmonic, FM acoustic ballad “Shattered Dream” (REO Speedwagon and Richard Marx comes to mind), the modern melodic rock of “Afterlife”, an elegant midtempo in “State of Mind” and the more modern “The Feeling Is Gone”, Scandi inspired and with a strong guitar work (fine solo). All really solid numbers.
The slow, deep instrumental which takes the name from the band is showcases Robert’s talents on the six-strings before the fantastic mid-paced AOR of “Let Sparks Fly” indeed sparks the magical late eighties spirit, sounding like Scottish wonders Strangeways. A highlight.

“Lost In Space And Time”, another favorite, owns a mysterious atmosphere which spreads its wings during the soaring main melody and beautiful structure. The way the verses build the climax demonstrates that the Riekerk guys have learned at the point of perfection. Seriously, this is again a notable tune Giant-like.
Semi-ballad “Let It Out” is sweet and elegant at the same time, and the stylized cadence on “Open Your Eyes” brings a welcomed L.A. westcoast summer breeze to add variation to the album.
The disc ends title track “Tomocyclus”, a nice, cool moody piece very Tyketto to my ears, where acoustic guitars wrap Thomas’ velvety vocals.

In most cases, the very first album is some kind of trial and error for most bands, no matter the genre.
Sparklands’ debut “Tomocyclus” fits into the selected slot where debut shines with its own light, focused, and most important of all, in an impressive way. There’s an enviable maturity on the songwriting, arrangements, performances and sound here.
You’ll be surprised (as this humble listener) by Sparklands, a terrific bunch of musicians delivering a captivating AOR recording plenty of magic.
Super Recommended.

01 – The Game
02 – Skyline
03 – Joanne
04 – Oasis
05 – Shattered Dream
06 – Afterlife
07 – State Of Mind
08 – The Feeling Has Gone
09 – Sparklands (instrumental)
10 – Let Sparks Fly
11 – Lost In Space And Time
12 – Let It Out
13 – Open Your Eyes
14 – Tomocyclus

Thomas Riekerk: Lead and Backing Vocals
Robert ‘Ty’ Riekerk: Acoustic & Electric Guitars, Keyboards
Simon Gitsels: Synthesizers, Keyboards
Minco Eggersman: Drums, Percussion, Keyboards
Martijn Groeneveld: add. Synthesizers & Keyboards

Pre-Order:
www.amazon.co.uk/Tomocyclus-Sparklands/dp/B00EO2WX5K
.