“Playground” By Absolute Elsewhere Is A Rediscovered Prog Treasure

Mid 70's progressive rock outfit Absolute Elsewhere released their debut album, “In Search Of Ancient Gods,” in 1976. Unfortunately, it was overshadowed by the 'upstart' punk movement that swept across the UK later that year , so the project was sadly shelved - until now.

2024: 40 odd or so years later and finally “Playground” is released, to the delight of prog rockers and musos' absolutely every (or else!) where! Unlike its Von Daniken influenced predecessor, this album doesn't nod to tales of aliens on Earth. Instead, it references very human narratives- including reminiscing of being child playing games in the 'playground' and is less instrumental and far more 'vocal' in its intentions.

Opener 'Time to Change' playfully plinky plonks and finds its groove with vibes and a hooks that is almost future echo of the (yet to come) 80s sonically. 'Talk to Me' delivers a sassy guitar opening and reminded me a lot of 70s solo Ringo Starr tracks, complete with catchy hook and claps. 'The 7 Year Itch', dare I say it, brings a whiff of punk (or actually, perhaps, more later New Wave) to start with at least with fairy dust intervals before regaining its punchy vibe later. 'Elementary Fools' evokes playground sounds in an elementary school. Short trouser time! It's quite a touching reflection on the long lost innocence of primary school days. 'It Doesn't Take A Burglar Long to Fall in Love' - at just over 2 minutes - is easily the shortest track: an instrumental jam. 'The Nine Other Worst Dressed Men' is clever observational character narrative.' Tides' brings a gentle piano and spanish-like guitar opener then, in tidal fashion, guitars kick in like crashing waves evoking the forces of nature and the sea.

“Playground” showcases Absolute Elsewhere’s imagination and exploration of narrative and nature and memory. In that, it is really quite charming. If you’re a fan of progressive rock and value the introspection of the prog music of the 1970's, this album is well worth a listen. Recommend.

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