Extra Sensory Perception
‘Absolutely fantastic’
ESP Project Release 11th Studio Album ‘Extra Sensory Perception’ 26.06.26
Featuring
Tony Lowe, Peter Coyle, Mark Brzezicki
or in The EU/France at Cosmos Music
EXTRA SENSORY PERCEPTION’, the new album from the ESP Project features Tony Lowe, Peter Coyle, and Mark Brzezicki, united for the third time, with seven new songs influenced by the strange and mystical phenomena of Extra Sensory Perception.
An inspired and eclectic offering from all three artists, merging their individual strengths to produce a unique and captivating album that promises to resonate with lovers of novel, imaginative music and mystery, leaving a lasting impression on the listener. Seven melodic, mysterious, and uplifting songs with lyrics and music that transport us into another world and dimension.
With the musicianship and production of multi-instrumentalist Tony Lowe,
the poetic lyrics and sublime vocals of Peter Coyle (ex-Lotus Eaters), and the inspired drumming of Mark Brzezicki (Big Country), this album is another mesmerising addition to the highly reviewed, unique ESP Catalogue. A musical collaboration which began with the acclaimed ’22 Layers of Sunlight’ 2018 Album (ESP 2.0) and continued with the captivating ‘VELVET CRUNCH’ in 2025. (Album Art, Design – Cheryl Stringall)
RECOMMENDATIONS:
“I highly recommend the extraordinary new album “Extra Sensory Perception” by the ESP Project. Truly riveting and impressive contemporary progressive rock! And it is full of cool references to modern physics.” – Paul Halpern – Professor of Physics, Saint Joseph’s University. His new book, soon to be released – The Great Atom Debate – [Paul Halpern is a professor of physics at Saint Joseph’s University and the author of nineteen popular science books, including Flashes of Creation, The Quantum Labyrinth, Einstein’s Dice and Schrödinger’s Cat, Synchronicity, and The Allure of the Multiverse. He is the recipient of a Guggenheim Fellowship and is a fellow of the American Physical Society.]
FEATURES
Hype-Index features ‘Weightless’ from the new album, Extra Sensory Perception
REVIEWS
Two amazing reviews from a Polish Prog Radio Station – MLWZ – English excerpts – reviews can be read at the links provided or HERE in pdf.
“The third meeting of Tony Lowe, Peter Coyle, and Mark Brzezicki yields a work of extraordinary, ethereal purity—an album woven from mist, cosmic radiance, and fire that doesn’t burn, but cleanses. It’s a musical panacea for the chaos of modernity, created by three sonic alchemists who have proven for years that progressive rock can be simultaneously mystical, pastel, and deeply humanistic.” –Maciej Niemczak – Full Review
“I absolutely recommend this album, as it’s like balm for the soul. Unhurried, exceptionally atmospheric, and perfectly executed. Every note, every word is in its right place, creating an incredible atmosphere of bliss and endless listening joy. This is a wonderful summer album, practically forcing you to take a breath, break away from everyday life, and, most importantly, embark on a path of reflection, inner peace, and immerse yourself in the healing power of the “land of light.” –Rysiek Puciato – Full Review
“Poetic lyrics, superb melodies sung with exquisite sensitivity by Peter Coyle , and highly successful musical arrangements: the latest offering from Tony Lowe and his ESP Project (*) stands out for its remarkable fluidity. Sharing concepts of modern physics (metaphysics?) in this way has an undeniable advantage over the abstruse mathematics that underpins science: it allows us to reflect and dream through music!” -Prog Critique Full Review
“Seven mid-sized tracks, each superbly constructed, all for our listening pleasure. … If you haven’t yet plunged into the ESP spell, too bad for you, as you are missing out on a level of consistent quality that escapes the usual traps that arbitrary dismissals may cause. Mature, fiery, secure and exalting music that you may just fall in love with. I know I did , way back when.” … “The undeniable liberation that is the message of peace. Here specifically, one can detect a clear Beatles influence, as if ESP channeled the spirit of that legendary band into a modern version of the White Album (in my mind, the first progressive masterpiece in music).” – Prog Rogue Full Review
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FI rounds up some independent albums worth a first, second or third listen
“Evoking the trip-hop downtempo vibes like the 2000s solo albums of ex-70s-80s-band frontmen, the UK-based ESP Project’s Extra Sensory Perception is a cool Y2K jam apt for today’s revival of wraparound sunglasses, impossibly baggy jeans, and undersized tank tops. Though the musicians behind this project have bewildering credentials in the prog rock and new wave worlds, the sound is completely unpretentious — just cool. Dreamy vocals and electric guitar flanked by pulsing synths, wavy pads, and some mellotron paint over the driving drums and bass. At times the mix leaned thin to me, but the album is strongest when locked in on a bassy groove like in the tune A Beam of Light — highly crankable in an open-top convertible as the sun comes up on Santa Monica Boulevard.” – Future Imperfect
From Cosmos Music:
“With this new album, ESP Project continues its journey within melodic progressive rock. Led by multi-instrumentalist Tony Lowe, the project offers meticulously crafted arrangements that prioritize song structure and melodic balance. The music thus evolves between atmospheric rock, symphonic textures, and measured progressive elements, avoiding technical displays in favor of a more mood-focused approach. For this album, Tony Lowe is joined by vocalist Peter Coyle and drummer Mark Brzezicki, bringing a fluid dynamic and a distinctive voice to the ensemble. From the opening track, keyboard textures and guitar interludes establish a hushed atmosphere, while the rest of the album alternates between orchestral passages, more pronounced rhythms, and instrumental developments. In terms of influences, the compositions recall the conventions of art rock and neo-prog, with nuances at times evoking Pink Floyd, The Beatles, or Alan Parsons Project, while retaining the band’s own unique identity. Boasting a clear and balanced production, Extra Sensory Perception is aimed at fans of melodic progressive rock, accessible and focused on the coherence of atmospheres.“
First Listen:
“This music makes me want to draw and paint! It will be perfect music to work by! It is very flowing and natural sounding. Very enlightening spiritual lyrics too about joining with nature in it’s pure form. I like it because it helps clear my head of ugly worldly vibes and replaces that with some healing vibes.” – Russ Bellinger
“A wonderful album that is such a joy to listen to. Peter Coyle’s vocals are probably the best I’ve heard from him on any of the ESP albums to date…like the track, his vocals are indeed weightless. Also some of the most engaging and enjoyable guitar work from Tony, especially the feedback and the fire. All the while the music is constantly moved on by the steady driving rhythms of Mark Brzezicki. Great stuff !!”- James Barry
“Peter Coyle on lead vocals absolutely wonderful…rather wonderful album with superb production standards always, absolutely fantastic.” – Shaun Geraghty, The Prog Mill
“You don’t need a sixth sense to discern that the musical credentials of the ESP Project brings together an alchemy of talent in a musical melting pot that has produced pure gold! Their latest album Extra Sensory Perception is haunting, mesmerising and magical – give your ears a treat!” – Chris Currie, Mersey Radio
“Very, very good album from ESP Project but then again, that’s what we come to expect from them, brilliant” – Garry Foster, WCR FM
Listen and Purchase
Video Trailer – Into Molecular
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JUNE 20, 2025
VELVET CRUNCH
“Nature – Supernatural rebirth”
ESP Project Release 10th Studio Album ‘VELVET CRUNCH’ 20.06.25
Featuring
Tony Lowe, Peter Coyle, Mark Brzezicki
Or in the EU and France – at COSMOS MUSIC
‘VELVET CRUNCH’, from the ESP Project features Tony Lowe, Peter Coyle, and Mark Brzezicki who unite once again to create a groundbreaking new album. Their creativity is sparked by the underground systems that connect trees and plants. Deep science. Deep nature. Deep connections.
VELVET CRUNCH is a masterpiece created by these three forces of nature.
‘… another beautiful album from this impressive team of creative minds.’ A brilliant review of Velvet Crunch from Background Magazine’s – Rickalonious Monk
A fantastic review from Big Bang Magazine and Alain SUCCA:
“When ESP Project’s highly successful Silver Waves ~ Astral Dreams was released just a year ago, we
were already wondering whether Tony Lowe’s almost supernatural creativity would ever wane. For the past decade, not a year has gone by without this English multi-instrumentalist reminding us of his talent with a new album, whatever the name (ESP, ESP 2.0, ESP Project, 22 Layers, etc.) and whatever the format (duo, group or solo) chosen for the project. Over the years, he has built a very personal musical edifice, without any major upheavals, each element being similar in substance to the others without being identical in form, an essential condition for capturing our attention and preventing us from becoming weary, even after the tenth opus … full review here … And on closer inspection, it seems that we have here one of the best albums from ESP Project.” Alain SUCCA – Big Bang Magazine October 2025 – In the EU – purchase here.
“Fabulous album, superb … such a good feel to it” Garry Foster – Prog Rock Files – WCR FM
Many thanks to Jane Lee and The Progressive Aspect for this wonderful review.
An excerpt: “As we have come to expect from ESP, the level of musicianship and production on this album is outstanding, achieving a warm balance that allows space for every thread in the musical fabric to shine through. There is a beautiful symbiosis between lyrics and music and a dynamic sense of flow throughout the album. This is mood-enhancing music that can gently wash through you and recharge your spirit, but for full health benefits this reviewer recommends total immersion with eyes closed and phone switched off. Velvet Crunch doesn’t just describe what it’s like to be in the forest; it magically shifts your viewpoint so that you become the forest itself, experiencing the rhythmic unfolding of the seasons and the deep, intersecting pathways of resurrection and renewal. Scientific studies have confirmed that time spent walking in the green shade of woodlands affords countless benefits for mind, body and spirit. When you slowly open your eyes after a deep listen to this spellbinding album, you will feel refreshed, uplifted and in harmony with nature – a profoundly rewarding experience you can repeat as many times as you wish from the comfort of your armchair and without treading mud into the carpet.” Jane Lee – TPA
Many thanks to Pierre at Prog Critique for this eloquent and insightful 4.8 out of 5 star review.
An excerpt: “Let’s return to the music to see that once again Tony Lowe and his ESP Project know how to captivate the listener by offering him a new collection of musical impressions that suggest more than they describe, without excess pathos or brutal or on the contrary too saccharine demonstrations: the right tone, quite simply, addressing both the heart and the mind. With its elegant melodies, its shimmering harmonic fabric, Velvet Crunch will captivate you without you even being aware of it!”
From Prog Rogue, this glorious review “… another masterpiece of modern music … this album (and the ESP discography) leaves behind the notion of simple convenient art and, instead enters the world of medication for the body and the soul. The times currently call for exactly this kind of soothing panacea.” Full Review at link above.
From Colin White – “… it is truly magnificent. The music is rich and intimate, with a warmth that lingers long after the last track.“
From Colin Powell – “It is wonderful. Such an interesting subject and extremely well produced. Very fresh sounding.“
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This collaboration under the ESP Project umbrella marks a bold step forward for all three artists, merging their individual strengths to produce a truly distinctive album. With its celebration of nature’s hidden marvels, this release promises to resonate with lovers of innovative music and nature enthusiasts alike, leaving a lasting impression on the contemporary music landscape.
From the tallest tree to the forest floor exists an intelligent world full of natural growth moving inextricably forward through time, furthering life with a continuous thread of elemental and chemical reactions birthed by “the touch and timing of the sun”. A tale of life, death, and rebirth on the forest floor, encapsulated within seven songs.
With the compositions, musicianship and production of multi-instrumentalist Tony Lowe, the poetic lyrics and sublime vocals of Peter Coyle (ex-Lotus Eaters), and the inspired drumming of Mark Brzezicki (from Big Country), this album is a mesmerising addition to the highly reviewed, unique ESP Catalogue. A musical collaboration not revisited since the acclaimed 2018 ‘22 Layers of Sunlight’ (ESP 2.0).
VELVET CRUNCH available on Bandcamp and the usual outlets as a CD/digital download from 20th June.
- Tony Lowe – Producer, composer and multi-instrumentalist for all the ESP Project albums. Tony
has composed and produced many different genres of music and worked with Roger Daltrey, Modern English, Pet Shop Boys, Julian Lennon, Julien Clerc (France), Mark Brzezicki (Big Country), Peter Coyle (The Lotus Eaters), to name a few. As well as playing on many recordings at Trident Studios London, he developed artists and artist material for various publishers and record labels, including Island Records, Red Bus Records, and Hannah Management. He produced albums for David Cross & Robert Fripp (King Crimson); David Cross & Peter Banks which included Pat Mastelotto, Tony Kaye, Billy Sherwood, Randy Raine-Reusch, Oliver Wakeman, Jay Schellen, Jeremy Stacey, Geoff Downes (Yes); Toyah; John Foxx; Simon Townshend (The Who) and many more. Tony, who is from London has lived in Buckinghamshire, UK for the last 11 years. - Peter Coyle – Vocals-Lyrics: Peter Coyle is a singer songwriter, performer, producer and visual artist and a founding member, lyricist and vocalist of The Lotus Eaters. He
has worked with Martyn Ware and Guy Chambers as well as many others. He is not interested in artifice only in the poetry of emotional intensity and moving forward so he can create something beautiful and real. Collaborations with Tony Lowe for the ESP Project involve his creations of new meanings, new atmospheres, new narratives and new ways of seeing. He is featured as vocalist and lyricist on ‘Anarchic Curves’ and ’22 Layers of Sunlight’ as well as being the co-producer, vocalist and lyricist on the music of ’22 LAYERS’ – a side project with Tony Lowe. Formerly from Liverpool he currently resides in France. - Mark Brzezicki
Drums: Widely known as being the drummer in Big Country although his list of live and studio credits is endless; including Eric Clapton, Phil Collins, Sting, Pete Townshend, Roger Daltrey, Procol Harum, The Cult, Bruce Foxton, and Midge Ure. He has performed beside Roger Taylor of Queen and Phil Collins of Genesis at the Princes Trust Concert. Mark featured on two ESP Project albums, ‘Invisible Din’ and ’22 Layers of Sunlight’ and now joins Tony and Peter on ‘VELVET CRUNCH’.
- Cheryl Stringall – Owner and Managing Director of Sunn Creative Music. Graphic artist, artist, photographer and videographer to numerous live shows and appearances, keyboards live and recorded with ESP Project. Co-writer with Tony Lowe of Lyrella’s ‘Cosmic Lark’.
FOR MORE INFORMATION AND LINKS
The ESP Project has a history of top reviewed releases, contributing lyricists, vocalists & musicians; the last nine releases receiving a multitude of 4-4.5-star reviews from the Music Press and numerous top 10 album of the year awards. All albums are produced by Tony Lowe and released on Sunn Creative.
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2025
Lyrella – Cosmic Lark
Find out about our latest ESP side project HERE.
2024
ESP Project releases ‘Silver Waves ~ Astral Dreams’
Purchase HERE
or in the EU & France – HERE
Written and performed by multi-instrumentalist, composer, and producer Tony Lowe in collaboration with singer/songwriter Louise Browne and just under 60 minutes; this dynamic album imparts an atmosphere of progressive enchantment as Louise Browne’s angelic vocals weave through intense, diverse soundscapes accompanied by Tony’s soulful guitar lines and intricate keyboard playing. A combination of haunting serenity and passion, with stirring rhythms and heartfelt lyrics, the album invites the listener to let the music and lyrics wash over them, like the light of the moon. Guest musicians on selected tracks include Steve Gee (Landmarq, John Wetton) on bass, Paul Simon (Thomas Dolby, John Foxx) on percussion, and Cheryl Stringall (ESP, Lyrella) on keyboards.
REVIEWS
Many thanks to Alain Succa and Big Bang Magazine for this excellent review … “positive music of the kind that sends us back to the infinite in which our mind gets lost while listening to it, daughter of the spiritual world, illuminated by the day of the sky, animated by a divine breath … Silver Waves ~ Astral Dreams is not the most progressive album of the ESP Project, but it is one of the most enchanting and sophisticated, sublimated by a weightless Louise Browne.”
Alain Succa – Full Review – Translated PDF here
https://cosmosmusic.fr/produit/big-bang-127-decembre-2024/
“Multi-instrumentalist Tony Lowe’s wide ranging CV runs from Toyah Willcox to Pet Shop Boys. Silver Waves ~ Astral Dreams (sunncreative.com) is the ninth album from his ESP Project, and it’s a beautiful, melodic, rococo gem. Louise Browne’s ethereal vocals add feel throughout (Curious Dreamer; Love Returns) while spacey instrumental Life Pod lets Lowe and band show off their seasoned chops. One for fans of Steve Hackett and Mostly Autumn alike.’’
Grant Moon, PROG Magazine
‘“Thank God, thank God for music” sang Ringo Starr. Enter Silver Waves ~ Astral Dreams, the ninth ESP Project studio album written and performed by Tony Lowe in collaboration with singer and songwriter Louise Browne. What a stunning album it is, too. Ravishing melodies recline on the most sumptuous, gorgeous soundscapes and the siren call of the music captivates, caresses, seduces and enchants, lifting you up above the drudgery and mundanity of the present. It whispers in your ear: ‘it doesn’t have to be like this’. And then, across 8 tracks and just under sixty minutes, it takes you by the hand and shows you why.‘
“The powerful allure of this magical recording certainly originates in the attention-grabbing freshness and joyful positivity of the luscious atmospheres it exudes. But this is no mere tonic to release the stresses of a bad day at the office, no quick-and-easy musical palette cleanser before embracing something more creatively satisfying to fill one’s time before bed. This is an album which extends the warm, comforting and enthralling embrace of complete and utter immersion.”
Full Review – by Rob Fisher from The Progressive Aspect
“Tony Lowe continues in an intensely creative vein, as he delivers his brand-new ESP Project album, ‘Silver Waves ~ Astral Dreams’ and the master of melodic prog introduces us to the voice of Louise Browne …” Full Review from Prog Critique
All the ESP albums come highly recommended, but this 2024 release is clearly a masterpiece that should create a tsunami of global interest, as the quality and delivery is beyond waves and dreams. 5 extra sensory perceptions” Full Review by Prog Rogue at Prog Archives
“What a stunning album it is…Ravishing melodies, gorgeous soundscapes, and seductive music which captivates, enchants, and lifts the soul…one of my top recommendations for 2024.” Rob Fisher – The Progressive Aspect & Prog Radar
“It’s just stunning … absolutely superb!” Shaun Geraghty – Progzilla
“With each album ESP Project unlock another piece of magic … ‘Silver Waves ~ Astral Dreams’ is simply magnificent.” Garry Foster – Prog Rock Files – WCR FM
“I get a strong lunar vibe from the album, which is cosmic at times and even primal (at the beginning of Curious Dreamer). Louise has a really great voice and it’s suited to Tony’s style of writing music. My favourite track is the atmospheric Shine, with its dark, cosmic opening and Gilmour-like guitar with the subtle syth work in the background where the understated vocals are highly effective.” Gareth Page – Prog Blog
Review Ratings
Prog Rogue 4.86 out of 5
Prog Critique 4.7 out of 5
Prog Radio 4.5 out of 5
Album art by Cheryl Stringall – Download Album Cover – Download Press Release – Tony Lowe
COMING SOON
Also on the cards this year is a fantastic new music project that we’re developing over the next few months for an album release later this year. Another ESP release towards the end of 2024 and a newly re-mastered version of ‘Human Sleeping’ with Alison Fleming, for its 10th anniversary.
Thank you to Prog-Watch and The Progressive Aspect for including ‘reverie’ in
Epic Prog Radio included ‘reverie’ in their first Album of the Year 2023 – where we landed in the top 20 out of 98. Thanks to all who voted!
ESP Project releases ‘reverie’ – 19/05/2023
reverie, A Prog Symphony in Seven Movements, is the 8th ESP Project album since 2016. Written and performed by Tony Lowe and just under 60 minutes; the music captures mysterious atmospheres where orchestral waves sweep across changing moods and tempos accompanied by Tony’s scintillating and melodic guitar lines, taking the listener into sublime landscapes and scenarios. From stirring symphonic themes, to prog rock and fusion, reverie invokes an overall feeling of hope for the future. Release 19th May 2023.
The ‘reverie‘ CD and other later ESP Project albums can be purchased on the ESP Project’s Bandcamp as well as at Cosmos Music in France. Albums can be downloaded on iTunes, Amazon and other digital stores. Links here.
Thank you to Professor Rob Fisher for this astute and insightful audio review of ‘reverie’ on Progressive Discoveries.
“REVERIE is the latest album from ESP Project. I couldn’t wait for the CD to arrive so I listened to the download, and was not disappointed. Tony Lowe is the sole musician here though the wide palette he’s employed gives the impression of a full, tightly-knit ensemble. It’s really uplifting stuff and somehow it feels like a step forward, as though Lowe has embraced the possibilities of a huge, blank canvas. As always, his playing is exquisite and his production is superb. Unfortunately I’m unable to appreciate the care that goes into the physical package until the CD lands on my doormat.” Gareth’s Prog Blog
“… a tremendous listen” -Garry Foster/Prog Rock Files/WCR FM – www.wcrfm.com/shows/garryfoster/
“Getting my first listen to “reverie”, the forthcoming album from ESP due for release from Sunn Creative on 19th May. Beautifully nuanced and alive with exquisite textures, Tony Lowe creates a striking and absorbing set of symphonic landscapes across seven tracks or movements. It’s a riveting journey which never fails to engross and absorb with abundant richness and engaging atmospheres. The stunning artwork yet is also courtesy of Tony and completes a package which brings a definite sense of peace and hope. Magnificent.” – Rob Fisher – The Progressive Aspect
“Glorious new music from the genius of Tony Lowe. A seven-song mini symphony that delights the senses and moves the soul. Exquisite sounds that expand and explore every movement and note creating a cornucopia of wonderful sensations and feeling! The music flows with energy, vitality, and distinction, creating a colorful, cosmic atmosphere, full of anticipation and wonder. There is an emotional release almost like a prayer being offered in the hopes of a better future. A positive uplifting album, this is original music of healing, love, and comfort for a wounded and hurting world. Sensual and strong, touching and forging, ‘reverie’ is a masterpiece of progressive music.” – Rick Peuser
“Outstanding album!! Airplay this week on The Prog Bus” – Progzilla Radio
“Another very impressive album from ESP Project” – Shaun Geraghty
“For the eighth album of ESP Project(*), Tony Lowe leaves the field of melodic prog for a large-scale orchestral work, of impressionist essence (as opposed to descriptive music), where the writing is not linear but made of a succession of shimmering and sophisticated sound impressions. If the voice is very little present here, it is often to better to let the guitar sing in very beautiful melodic lines. Here is once again a captivating album filled with refined feel good music !” – Prog Critique – full review
“After a very beautiful Anarchic Curves in 2022 (followed in the wake of an album, Innerlife, which the group did not wish to distribute outside its personal network), ESP Project returns to us with an equally successful album, highlighting before an undeniable melodic brilliance and an equally magnificently embodied symphonic ambition. ESP Project has once again decided to publish very few copies of Reverie, so don’t wait to get your hands on this one (musical economic situation obliges), with its typically English beauty and personality…” Cosmos Music
“Tony Lowe, the master thinker of the ESP Project group …” – full review on Prog Censor facebook page
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ESP Project releases ‘innerlife’ – 29/09/2022
From colour, through words and music, to the ‘innerlife’
Buy here ONLY on Bandcamp
“Fabulous album … Tremendous piece of work” – Garry Foster – Prog Rock Files – WCR FM
“Beautiful energy! …has all the qualities of a great ESP album!” – Pierre Prog – Prog Critique – FULL Review in English
The first project written and conceived by Tony Lowe for ESP was a multi-sensory, multi-media concept influenced by the colour spectrum, including visuals, music and lyrics and the use of corresponding scents. All in all, creating a complete sensory experience in three areas, with a 13-song soundtrack by Tony Lowe and Alison Fleming.
Imagine a place where a world of music, colour and scent combine, surrounding and engaging you, the audience, in a glorious tri-sensory experience. Each composition is influenced by the colours in the visible spectrum corresponding with a mood experienced when listening to the songs as they flow through different musical styles; including rock, pop, acoustic and orchestral. Most people are aware of the influence of colour on our moods and emotions, the subjective power of a particular image, and the manner in which music can move us deeply. Combining these with a sense of smell produces a powerful sensory experience. An experience of this unique event will positively change perception of our world.
The ‘innerlife‘ live show was performed once for the Action Aid Charity by Tony and Alison with a full band including Vari-Lites for the colour changes, in London in 2008. There was a limited-edition CD at the time, and we now have the ability to create the right kind of visual presentation, so we’re re-issuing an updated version of the soundtrack.
The ‘innerlife‘ soundtrack will be available on September 29th with a short promo video. Full length videos to go with the songs and music will be available on YouTube in 2023. PRESS RELEASE
‘anarchic curves’ released 29-04-22
ESP Project – Anarchic Curves
Thank you to The Progressive Aspect and Rick Peuser for the inclusion of ‘anarchic curves’ in the ‘Some of the Best of 2022‘ list.
“Huge fan of Tony Lowe and his ESP Project. Love the vibe in all their music. Deep listening and wonderment. Another release that creates cinematic dreamscapes and a sense of timelessness. The music is dreamy and textured, and Peter Coyle’s vocals are perfect for it.”
Website | Facebook | Bandcamp
TPA Review
F
rom Prog censor – “All compositions and interpretations seem to be put at the service of the singer who unfolds his lyrics on round and soft melodies in a perfect symbiosis. Listen to “Moon Dust” and you will feel that little moment of grace and calm (unexplained with reason), like a fragrance of the past arising in connection with the bliss of the volutes of our youth.
From Background Magazine – Netherlands
“This release is delivered in the most tasteful manner, filled with spacious arrangements, dreamy vocals and textured instrumentation.” – Review Here – Rickalonius Monk
From BIG BANG Magazine – France
“… the record is in keeping, on the same tone, overflowing with tenderly captivating melodies, and quietly inventive guitar solos, bathing in a mellow atmosphere …Closer to Fish On Friday than to Lifesigns, ESP Project puts with Anarchic Curves once again in the spotlight and taste of the day an elegant and romantic symphonic prog, indispensable for any fan of Barclay James Harvest or the sweetest Tony Banks. As for the most demanding prog fans, they will enjoy the few unbridled escapes that dot the record and its conclusion of beauty.” Alain Succa – Big Bang Magazine – translated review HERE.
From France – “All in sound delicacy, Anarchic Curves is a captivating album from start to finish, musical charm in its purest form!” *Album of the Month – Read full review in English HERE or at Prog Critique
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“It took me a while to find the word which remained at the periphery of my mind as I listened and relistened to this album. Dignity. Anarchic Curves is, in the end, a magnificent exaltation of the greatness of the human spirit.” – Rob Fisher – Progressive Aspect – Full Review
“Glorious. First listen to the new release from ESP. Fabulous, rich melodic texturing, soundscapes to savour and an atmosphere of exhilarating creativity. And what can you say about the artwork – stunning. Yet another remarkable evolution in the ESP Project’s already highly impressive journey.” – Rob Fisher
“It’s a great album … the best so far” – Garry Foster – Prog Rock Files Show – WCR FM, Tune In Radio, Smart Speaker and online at wcrfm.com
“The music is like a good chocolate Brownie, Rich, Layered and Smooth with a little bite that leaves you wanting more.” – Joby Hook –Sounds From The Bunker Room – on Burgess Hill Radio – The Friday Rock Show
“Hear another track from the new album Anarchic Curves on Easter Sunday evening (17 April) on Progzilla Radio as Shaun plays a track on The Prog Mill. The show starts at 10pm UK. Listen at www.progzilla.com/listen – or you can find Progzilla Radio on Tune-In, Radio Garden, Alexa and many other streaming platforms” – Shaun Geraghty
The ESP Project release their sixth studio album, ‘anarchic curves’ on 29th April 2022. Featuring the musical compositions of Tony Lowe, the concept, poetic lyrics and vocals of Peter Coyle, this album is a mesmerising addition to a highly reviewed body of work. Tony and Peter take us yet again into a vivid and imaginative world with songs that move from melodic and symphonic to intense prog rock, creating an unforgettable offering to the ESP Project catalogue. The album features Tony Lowe on guitar-keyboards, Peter Coyle on vocals, Pete Clark on bass, Dave Etheridge on drums, and Peter Coyle & Cheryl Stringall on additional keyboards. The band tours with Landmarq Summer of 2022. Musician biogs.
Since 2016, the five ESP Project albums have received a combination of over 50 4-4.5/5-star reviews from the Music Press and several top 10 albums of the year awards. All albums are produced by Tony Lowe and released on the Sunn Creative label. ‘anarchic curves’ is available on Bandcamp as a CD/digital download from 29th April, and the usual outlets. The CD comes as a Limited-Edition digipak with a 12-page lyric booklet with album art and graphics by Cheryl Stringall.
BACKGROUND: Tony Lowe’s ESP Project began in 2015/16 with ‘Invisible Din’ featuring numerous guests including Mark Brzezicki, David Cross, David Jackson, and John Young; followed in 2018 by ‘22 Layers of Sunlight’, with vocals, concept and lyrics from ex-Lotus Eaters, Peter Coyle, and three additional albums – ’three’, ’The Rising’ & ‘phenomena’ with lyrics/vocals by Damien Child. On ‘22 Layers of Sunlight’ (2018) with Peter’s unique lyrics and vocal style alongside Tony’s music, they created something strong and different with a new and unheard synthesis of music, words, and production. They return to their creative collaboration on ‘anarchic curves’, a stunning, timely addition to the ESP musical catalogue.
“This is an album that will reward your time with real richness. Listen to it in the summer sunlight and be caressed by the sound.” – Steve Swift – Fireworks Issue 83
“…expertly crafted with excellent writing and musicianship, impeccable production and once again, beautiful presentation.” Prog Blog
22 Layers of Sunlight “is a very well-crafted set of songs, clearly put together with passion and care by the musicians involved and certainly recommended for all prog fans.“ – Rock Society
“This band creates the perfect soundscapes…another wonderful release from Tony Lowe and ESP. There’s not a track on 22 Layers Of Sunlight that did not sound perfect or had any missing notions.” Professor Mark – The Progressive Aspect
“21st century progressive (in a good sense) a fresh glow and extraordinary, innovative melody sense stand out strikingly, this work is pushing to the highest masterpiece”. From Japan – Yoshiyuki Ooseki – Monthly Prog Notes
“ESP 2.0 have done it again with another album full of intriguing and enjoyable music. ’22 Layers Of Sunlight’ will certainly propel them further into the upper echelons of progressive music. **** ” Jason Ritchie – Get Ready to Rock
“…it’s good to see Lowe and Coyle with their own agenda and what they do on their own terms…and on their own terms comes a grand concept…the album presents a lush listen…what stands out are the congenial and extended song arrangements…all controlled and contained in a warm and rich decoration.” POWERPLAY Issue 207 – Full Review
Tony Lowe is back in the studio creating new music for the 6th ESP Project release which will again feature the wonderful voice and lyrics of Peter Coyle. Collaborations between Tony and Peter can be heard on the ‘22 Layers of Sunlight’ and ‘isotope’ albums with UK gigs for both projects booking for 2022. String – Sunn Creative
The first of two programs with Tony Lowe of the ESP Project and 22 Layers! Tune in to hear some of the chat and lots of great music from the two projects including his collaboration with Alison Fleming! http://progwatch.com/835/
Progzilla Radio! http://www.progzilla.com/…
phenomena
‘Appearance in perception as different from its ‘real’ nature’
On Bandcamp, iTunes, Amazon – 4th September 2020
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‘phenomena’ is the fifth release from Tony Lowe’s ESP Project and was written, arranged and performed by Tony, between January and June 2020. The album also features Damien Child who wrote the insightful and imaginative lyrics once again, and added the vocals at the end of May, with a special guest appearance by Alison Fleming on vocals on Track 7. This album has all the hallmarks of ESP with alluring melodies and stirring arrangements. Tony’s guitar and synth play haunting themes, weaving over symphonic rock at its most dramatic and uplifting, all interspersed with strange altering scenes and soundtracks that suggest dark and fascinating interiors to this music. ‘phenomena’ is rhythmic and captivating yet strong and hopeful in all the right places.
Variety + The ESP Project on Progressive Discoveries
Resident reviewer, Dr. Rob Fisher, will take us on a voyage of Progressive Discovery with the latest album by Tony Lowe’s ESP Project!
“Tony Lowe is a first-rate composer with a keen sense of composition that like his previous albums, this one hides treasures that are just waiting to be discovered or rediscovered.” Daniel Sebon – Amarok Magazine 2021 – Translated PDF
From Tony Lowe’s featured interview with Alain Succa at Big Bang Magazine – “it’s a matter of building something from the imagination, and in a way the music then tells me what it needs. I follow where it leads me.” – English Translation – Big Bang Magazine – France – Dec 2020 Issue – Thank you also to Olivier at Cosmos Music France
Phenomena “is glorious, it is embracing but it is always and forever shifting. You never hear the same album twice. Different things resonate with each listen, emphases shift, different elements and aspects stand out depending on mood, attentiveness and the listener’s disposition. To my mind, this is what makes it a truly absorbing and deeply fascinating album.” – Full Review – Rob Fisher – Progressive Aspect
“Phenomena is a much needed boost of an album, powerful, challenging symphonic rock that refuses to rest on its laurels and proving yet again that the ESP Project is full of class, musicality and great, thoughtful writing.” – Full Review – Andrew Cottrell – Background Magazine
Phenomena is full of “beautiful melodic lines and remarkable imaginative and refined sections“ – Full Review – Jacques Becker
“Phenomema” keeps all its promises with a superb musicality… In short, great class and the full of positive energy!” – Full Review – Pierre from ProgCritique
“…a mix of original melodic rock, all tinged with symphonic-typed breaks, pieces flowing gracefully through the voice and instruments…” – Full Review – Brutus from Prog Censor
“Tony Lowe (music & instrumentation) and excellent vocalist/lyricist Damien Child come through with a collection of very enjoyable Neo Prog songs.I am intrigued by Tony’s chord sensibilities as well as Damien’s ability to find a fitting though often edgy and distinctive melody line with his beautifully modulated voice. Definitely an album and duo worth revisiting. B+/4.5 stars; a near-masterpiece of well-formed progressive rock music.” – Full Review – Bruford Freak – ProgArchives
“The album is crammed full of accessible, symphonic rock music with some nice progressive flourishes and effective snatches of experimentation…bolstered by Lowe’s precise layered instrumentation and sumptuous production…some great playing, thoughtful lyrics, and the definitive ESP stamp make PHENOMENA another class album.” – Full Review – Gareth’s Prog Blog
“It’s an absolutely superb album from Start to finish!!!” Garry Foster – Prog Rock Files Show – wcrfm
“Here’s the Prog you’ve been looking for! – Phenomena is a tour de force of contemporary prog.” – Brian Talgo (Gentle Knife) – Review below
A taste of phenomena
“A new ESP album is something I always look forward to. Tony Lowe has in both his solo and ESP work constantly delivered an excellent eclectic mix of original rock and melodic prog music. His signature sound manages to recall the glory of classic prog, while avoiding sounding derivative, unlike many other prog bands these days. Clearly a first-class musical producer, the high production values shine throughout as a key factor on all his releases.
It was with some trepidation that I noted on this latest ESP release, Phenomena, that he was credited for ‘Music & Instrumentation – All tracks’, with only lyrics and vocals being handed over to others (The excellent Damien Child collaborating once again, and a guest performance by Alison Fleming on a remake of Tony’s lovely ballad ‘Seven Billion Tiny Sparks).’ My worries would prove to be entirely unjustified.
Not to belittle the past albums, all of which I’ve enjoyed, but from the initial track, ‘First Flight’, and onwards, I realized this was a different ESP; a darker, edgier version, with a seasoned musician truly finding his métier. Perhaps it’s because Lowe had more or less full control of the project, from writing and arranging to performing and producing, he has been able with Phenomena to bring his artistic vision to a new level of fulfillment. For whatever reason, Phenomena is a tour de force of contemporary prog.” – Brian Talgo – Gentle Knife
*****
Thank you:
Garry Foster for featuring phenomena on Prog Rock Files – wcrfm
Shaun Geraghty for featuring phenomena on The Progmill – Progzilla Radio
Bob Prigmore for featuring phenomena on the The Prog and Rock Show
Jan Bracke for featuring phenomena on Raven Radio
To all the reviewers on Progarchives.com who have supported the ESP Project!
Quiet Days Louder Nights
The ESP Featuring series is live on Bandcamp – No 1 – ‘Quiet Days Louder Nights’ features the unmistakable sound of David Jackson in this new instrumental version of ‘Quiet Days’ from ‘Invisible Din’. Previously unheard parts by David Jackson on Saxes and Flutes and Tony Lowe on Guitar, Keys and programming.
“When David sent me parts for the album, he always included several different takes, and for that version I used the parts that supported the song as it was then. Some of the parts were so strong that they really deserve to be heard and LOUD. So here is ‘Quiet Days Louder Nights’ Featuring David Jackson.” – Tony Lowe
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THE RISING -11th OCTOBER 2019
“The Rising is ‘an extraordinarily accomplished album, symphonic in scale, while retaining a freshness and urgency.’ An Album ‘that demands urgent attention, not just from prog fans, but from anyone who appreciates thoughtful, well-constructed songwriting.‘” Review – Andrew Cottrell – Background Magazine
“Tony Lowe’s songwriting is completely intoxicating. Delicious soundscapes are interwoven around sophisticated and carefully designed structures. All the melodies on this disc are seductive and resonate with intense and changing rhythms.” Review – English Translation – Daniel Sebon – Amarok Magazine
“The sheer scale and extent of the musical vision is mesmerising. This is an album brimming with invention and imagination, where exceptional instrumental artistry embraces a rich lyrical poetry to create tantalising musical sketches to surprise and delight in equal measure. Highly recommended.“ Review – Rob Fisher – The Progressive Aspect
Listen to Rob Fisher’s eloquent review on Progressive Discoveries – the Prog Watch 704 Podcast
“The Rising will without question lift your spirits towards the sky, injecting both pace and energy at exactly the right juncture. It’s a real pleasure in this age…that the likes of ESP Project are still crafting well considered albums that flow and engage both through each individual song but also from the mood they create as a cohesive whole.” Review – Sea of Tranquility
ESP PROJECT
The ESP Project began in 2015/16 with ‘Invisible Din’ featuring well-know prog guests. Followed in 2018 by ’22 Layers of Sunlight’, a collaboration between Tony Lowe & Peter Coyle. ESP albums have been given over 26, 4-4.5 star reviews by music press, voted into the top 10 Prog Rock albums of the year and top 10 albums of 2017/2018/2019. In 2019, the ESP Project moved forward with co-writers Tony Lowe and Damien Child releasing ‘three’ a ‘stunning’ mini-album in January and a new album, ‘The Rising’ the 11th of October. See About
Back with a sharp rise in temperature, the new ESP Project album, THE RISING, is upbeat and powerful. This tight four piece band roars through a landscape sculpted by the powerful and moving music of Tony Lowe, coupled with insightful and heartfelt lyrics of Damien Child with his versatile and poignant vocals. With guitar and keys by Tony Lowe, the passionate grooves of Pete Clark’s bass, underpinned by the intense energy of Greg Pringle’s drums, this album takes the listener to another level in the ESP catalogue. PRESS RELEASE
ADDITIONAL REVIEWS of THE RISING
“There may be a few doing this, but not to this depth; the concept, the soundscape, the organic playing, this band have delivered 
from the beginning…luxurious, hypnotic…” – Review – Steve Swift – FIREWORKS
“…the whole album sparkles with musical, lyrical and vocal delights. Lowe and Child seem to have both drawn each other’s talents and created the most rounded, enjoyable ESP album to date.” – Review – Jason Ritchie – Get Ready to Rock
“An album that promises to deliver on everything that the band has previously worked on and more.” Review – The Median Man
“It’s a prog rock fans dream…a great performance by new vocalist Damien Child…with Lowe’s guitars and keys tastefully dominating…there’s nothing to dislike on The Rising“ – Geoff Wootton – Powerplay Oct 2019
“Yet again Tony and Damien lead a great ensemble through a splendid set of tunes. This pair are looking VERY strong. Too early to have a real favourite yet. ESP Project has been causing ripples in the “prog” firmament, now they are making waves.” Mike Ashton
“The Rising album launch – another beautifully crafted addition to the canon from Tony Lowe’s ESP Project” – Gareth’s Prog Blog
“…an album of poetic finesse chiselled on topical themes of our planet and our everyday life…the album is a great artistic success that will surprise and delight…” Review – Jipé Yoda – Prog Critique
LIVE
“To experien
ce the soaring, experimental, epic musical investigations of their new album, alloyed with essential choices from its previous incarnations, ESP proffers an expanding musical pathway ahead. From the opening synth pulsations of ‘The Rising’ they unlocked a new musical door, the new release’s symphonic prog highlights entrancing the room.” – Complete Review – Paul Davies – Record Collector
“I’d urged prog fans to get to see ESP after the performance marking the launch of their debut, Invisible Din in November 2016, highlighting them as new standard-bearers for 21st century symphonic prog; three full-length albums and one EP in, I stand by my words.” See live review from Gareth’s Prog Blog
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ESP Project – three (19/01/19)
Four new outstanding symphonic prog tracks from Tony Lowe’s ESP Project
“Each release from ESP just gets better & better, they set the bar high and then scale it with ease.“
Garry Foster – Prog Rock Files – wcrfm.com – unchainedmusiconline.com
Tony Lowe’s ESP Project is back with four great new tracks. Titled ‘three‘, the new EP contains over 30 min of progressive rock and is out on 19th January. ‘three’ has all the hallmarks of the first two ESP releases, with Tony’s symphonic compositions and arrangements weaving in and out of evocative and passionate vocal sections, delivered with both sensitivity and power in all the right places by Damien Child, an accomplished actor and singer with many years experience in TV, Radio and West End Theatre.
With Greg Pringle on Drums and Pete Clark on Bass this is a formidable combo of accomplished musicians playing with heart and soul. Threade
d through by Tony’s unmistakeable guitar and keyboard playing, a must for anyone who liked the previous two albums, which together were given over twenty-six, 4 – 4.5 star reviews by the music press and voted into the top 10 Progressive Rock – albums of the year as well as in top 20 albums of 2018.
Tony and Damien are working on a new album for an autumn 2019 release; in the meantime, as an introduction, ‘three’ is available on Bandcamp as a CD and digital download from 19th Jan, and then the usual digital outlets, see the MP3s and CDs page or the sidebar for links.
Comments from Radio Presenters and Media
“‘three’ – 4.5 /
5 rating. If you enjoy great vocals, melodies, lyrics, compositions & talented musicians, then ESP Project is definitely for you. Check them out ! We haven’t heard the last of ESP“ – Denis Champagne (Prog Core Live) progcoreradio.com (Montréal)
“ESP is an evolving musical project, involving Tony Lowe and a series of collaborators. The latest three EP, also featuring Damien Child, is really excellent, ESP’s best so far. Really looking forward to the next album.” – Paul Grunill – The Last Outpost, Harborough FM
“…Lowe’s guitar poses elegant notes. In addition, the singer Damien child has the timbre of voice that perfectly suits the composed music…much as this disc is of a beautiful fluidity. If you like melodic rock and progressive rock this disc is made for you.” 8.5/10 Eric Berger – Progtime Music
ESP – ‘three’ – Background
In 2019, Tony is joined by vocalist/lyricist Damien Child and another dimension is reached with soaring m
elodies alongside heartfelt passionate vocals over a weave of strong rhythmic drums, percussion and bass, often reaching new heights in this combination of symphonic prog rock and classical music that is stirring, uplifting and joyful in places, but equally strange and dark in others.
Damien Child began working in the entertainment industry at the age of 10 as an actor and singer. Work included lead roles on TV, radio and West End shows in a career that spanned 16 years.
When he isn’t immersed in music you can find him lurking around the horror section of the nearest bookshop.