Astrolabe band photo

Alan Davey Launches Cosmic Odyssey with 'Astrolabes And Sunstones'

By Jason •
The legendary bassist and sonic architect returns with a groundbreaking instrumental journey that transcends the stars.

In the vast expanse of the cosmos, one name shines brightly in the realm of progressive rock: Alan Davey. This legendary bassist, known for his spellbinding contributions to HAWKWIND, has announced the release of his latest solo album, 'Astrolabes And Sunstones', set to drop on September 12 via Savant Guarde Records. With a career spanning over four decades, Davey has carved a niche for himself as a pivotal figure in the progressive and space rock scenes.

After two iconic stints with HAWKWIND—from 1984 to 1996, and then again from 2000 to 2006—Davey has left an indelible mark on the band's sound. Known for his electrifying stage presence and the signature 'Big Bass' approach, he recorded nine studio albums with the band, solidifying himself as a cornerstone of their most influential eras. Now, with 'Astrolabes And Sunstones', he embarks on a new expedition into the soundscape, recorded in the tranquility of his California desert studio.

This new offering is a thematic sequel to his lauded 2024 release, 'Electrum'. 'Astrolabes And Sunstones' is an instrumental odyssey, weaving through psychedelic, progressive, and soundtrack-inspired realms. Each track is a vessel guiding listeners through cosmic landscapes, with hypnotic textures and progressive electronic atmospheres that invite you to lose yourself in the music.

After stepping away from HAWKWIND in 1996, Davey embraced solo endeavors that allowed him to explore his musical instincts without constraints. Following an eight-year hiatus from solo work, his return with 'Electrum' was met with praise for its fusion of space rock and melodic songwriting. Now, with 'Astrolabes And Sunstones', he strips back the vocals, allowing the instrumentation to narrate an expansive story, encouraging fans to abandon the mundane and delve into a more cosmic experience.

Accompanied by stunning artwork from Alan Arthurs, former HAWKWIND stage director, and mastered by Paul Cobbold, this release is not just an album but a holistic artistic experience. As listeners flip through the accompanying booklet of artwork, they embark on a visual voyage that enhances the auditory journey. With tracks like 'Astrolabe Skyway' and 'Sunstone Star Highway', Davey invites us all to traverse the uncharted territories of sound and imagination.