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Reviews

Rob Harrison — Overflow
(Bandcamp no#, 2026, DL)

by Jon Davis, Published 2026-05-02

Overflow Cover art

After the blast of musical energy that was Explode My Head, Rob Harrison gives us Overflow, which goes contrary to expectations by starting out rather quietly. “Tributaries” begins as a gentle tune with atmospheric keyboards and lovely flutes, maybe a little reminiscent of something from a mid-70s Jade Warrior album. Bass guitar and saxes join gradually, then drums, but it isn’t until five minutes in (after a section with rippling harp and chanted vocals) that the piece takes off with electric guitars and a driving rhythm. It’s a great tune that shows what Harrison is capable of, and shows off his stylistic range. Some of the sounds might remind a listener of Gong, and others may bring up Frank Zappa, but it’s all so original and distinctive that the references are more likely to induce smiles than any thoughts of borrowing. When Harrison chooses to rock, his rhythms are tricky and quirky but never lose the groove. “Tributaries” may be the longest track on the album, but the shorter ones provide joys of their own, presenting a multitude of ideas in concise form, with new sounds around every corner. Aside from drummer Eliseo Salverri, Harrison takes care of everything, from guitar, bass, keys, and vocals to all manner of wind instrument — saxophone, flute, recorder, and even bottles. There are a few guests on individual tracks to provide harp, violin, and mallet instruments. In spite of the fact that Overflow was constructed in many layers of overdubs, the music sounds very much like the work of a band, and a lot of that comes down to Saverri’s excellent work and superb timing. Rob Harrison is certainly among the top practitioners of psychedelic progressive rock active today.

Filed under: New releases, 2026 releases

Related artist(s): Rob Harrison

More info
http://robharrisonmusic.bandcamp.com/album/overflow

 

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