Glyder – Backroads To Byzantium (2011)

Irish band Glyder recently released their fourth album, Backroads To Byzantium. This was my first exposure to the band and what stood out immediately was Glyder’s 70s style rock sound. While there is not one 70s band in particular they can be compared to, Glyder’s sound is an amalgamation of all 70s rock, from Fleetwood Mac to T-Rex. The band certainly falls into the soft rock category much more than the hard rock side.

While Backroads To Byzantium didn’t wow me out of the gate, it still has its moments and gems. “Even If I Don’t Know Where I’m Gonna Go” is a great highway cruising song and the slide guitar by Bat Kinane and Pete Fisher are stupendous. In fact, the guitar work throughout Backroads To Byzantium is in the upper echelon of greatness. Kinane and Fisher are both expert guitarists and their ability is stamped all over this album.

At the center of the songs is lead singer Jackie Robinson. His smoky voice is a blend of Skynyrd and Allman. Robinson solidifies the 70s style rock and roll that Glyder performs and his voice, while limited in range, is a unique and memorable force. Robinson is the perfect singer for Glyder as his vocal style is an exceptional accompaniment to the music Glyder performs.

The best song on Backroads To Byzantium is easily the last one. “Motions Of Time” is the big ballad and final track of the record. Armed with a memorable hook and fantastic guitar picking, “Motions Of Time,” is as emotional as a ballad should be and left me wanting to hear more songs like this. Obviously Glyder didn’t want to put out an album of ballads, but it appears to be one of the bands strengths. “Motions Of Time” is a blissful mix of blues and acoustic rock.

If you are a fan of the softer side of rock, then Backroads To Byzantium is something you are bound to enjoy. The guitar work alone makes the album worthy of a few spins. However, if you are looking for something a little heavier, then it’s best to pass this one by.

Rating: Out of 10