IQ – Dominion (2025) *HQ*

After a six-year hiatus, IQ returns with ”Dominion”, an fantastic recording that demonstrates their enduring command over melodic progressive rock. Among the wave of second-generation British progressive rock bands that emerged in the 1980s, IQ has always stood at the pinnacle, with a wide sonic spectrum attracting fans from different genres from prog rock to hard rock and even melodic pop.
Their mastery crafting intelligent music is undeniable, combining superb musicianship, sweeping progressions, and deeply evocative lyrics. Peter Nicholls’ vocals remain a defining force. Indeed, his delivery is clear, nuanced, and effortlessly hypnotic, drawing listeners deeply into the new album. Throughout, Nicholls’ vocals beautifully intertwine with the opulent instrumentation, engaging in a dynamic dance with the electric organ & synths, finely crafted guitar solos, and glorious Mellotron.

Although not quite enjoying the major commercial success of some of their contemporaries, IQ have nevertheless crafted a catalogue of top quality albums to rival anyone else’s in the prog rock universe and beyond.
With over 40 years of history, IQ have cultivated a fiercely loyal fanbase. ”Dominion” will simultaneously give rich enjoyment to long-term fans but also casual listeners eager for well crafted rock music, accessible and elaborated at the same time.

“Dominion” is the thirteenth album in IQ’s 44 year career. The album is eagerly waited, coming six years after previous album “Resistance” – the longest gap between their albums.
Listening to “Dominion”, the chemistry between these five musicians is striking – a natural symbiosis that can only be achieved by playing together for decades. I can think only of Marillion and Rush that also exhibit such pure musical telepathy. All band members contribute stellar performances, with the production, mixing and mastering providing a sonic clarity and richness that allows everyone to shine.

The musicianship on display is consistently impressive, but it must be said that Peter Nicholls is a dominant force on “Dominion”. One of the most recognisable and distinctive voices in prog, throughout this album vocal melodies are exquisitely crafted and the vocals are front and centre of the mix, commanding attention with cut-glass precision. Also a superb lyricist, Nicholls’ voice sounds like it hasn’t aged a minute in 44 years – how many singers can claim that?

In its strongest moments, “Dominion” is phenomenally good. “The Unknown Door” and “No Dominion”, especially, are outstanding, and there’s an exhilarating must-hear passage in “Far From Here”.
It’s probably fair to say that the album doesn’t break a huge amount of new musical ground, but when a band has such an effective and enjoyable style, this is usually a good thing and it certainly is here. We can all think of artists who have changed their sound, with mixed results. IQ can be commended for doing what they do very well indeed. You can only admire the longevity of a band still producing an album this good in their 44th year.

“Dominion” is sure to delight IQ’s many loyal fans and if you’re not yet a fan or have been IQ-curious for some time, make it a priority to check this album out. You’re likely to be delighted – and a voyage of discovery awaits you.
Highly Recommended

01 – The Unknown Door
I. Faint Equations
II. Many And More Still
III. An Orbital Plane
IV. Dream Stronger
02 – One Of Us
03 – No Dominion
04 – Far From Here
05 – Never Land

Peter Nicholls – lead & backing vocals
Michael Holmes – guitars, producer
Neil Durant – keyboards
Tim Esau – bass, bass pedals
Paul Cook – drums, percussion

Pre order:
burningshed.com/iq_dominion_cd