Line-up

Venue

Academy 2

Manchester University Union, Oxford Road, M139PR, Manchester, UK

www.manchesteracademy.net/

Capacity: 850

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Caspian biography

Caspian (formed in 2003) is an American experimental and post-rock band who released their debut double-disc album “The Four Trees” in 2007, hailing from Beverly, Massachusetts, U.S.

Originally comprised of guitarist and keyboard player Philip Jamieson, guitarist Calvin Joss, bassist Christ Friedrich, and drummer Joe Vickers, Caspian initially formed in 2003. After developing an early demo tape in which to sell at shows and send to labels, the group spent the majority of 2004 and 2005 on tour, opening for the likes of Japanese post-rock band Mono. Following a successful run of shows Caspian signed with Dopamine Records who issued the band’s debut EP “You Are the Conductor” in November 2005. In support of the record Caspian headed out on a modest tour of the North East before embarking on their debut national tour in April 2006.

Once again released on Dopamine Records, Caspian’s debut full-length album “The Four Trees” arrived in April 2007. Voted the No. 1 album of 2007 by The Silent Ballet, the record did wonders for the band's post-rock reputation as well as expanding their fan base beyond the genre. Guitarist Calvin Joss departed the band ahead of the supporting tour and was replaced by former The Fly-Agaris Sky member Erin Burke-Moran. Caspian’s sophomore album “Tertia” followed in August 2009, which, like its predecessor was recorded with Ethan Dussault at the production reigns. The record was followed by the band’s most extensive touring to date, with two huge European tours and a two-month North American tour.

In 2011 the band performed at the 2011 SXSW Festival before heading to Europe for an eight-day tour of Germany, Poland, and the Netherlands. Caspian’s third album “Walking Season” arrived in September 2012 and was promoted on tour in support of Minus the Bear. The live EP “Live at Old South Church” subsequently arrived in 2012, followed by the EP “Hymn For the Greatest Generation” in 2013.

Live reviews

Epic band, epic gig, epic support act. All in a solid gig venue with an eager crowd. The sound was spot on, the mix of new songs off 'Heirs' and older stuff was well thought through in terms of placement/arrangement and it all came together like a galactic rock dream.

Report

LSheasby

"Waking Season"
Music is universal, and there are very few bands during this time that can effortlessly get their message across with little to no lyrics or vocals, Caspian is one of those bands.

Their music works for everything from driving while exploring the world around you, a bad breakup where you need to vent to find yourself again, or just the need to feel your chest tighten with emotion where breathing becomes a poetic gift. They cross seas and lands to reach a new height for their music, allowing their beauty to ring in your ears and mind as soon as you step out of the venue. I even told some of the band members this to show my appreciation and gratitude for making this music, music that held a line right through me.

Not just any silly twine, they sunk their line into a vast ocean of waves and I grabbed on by listening to 00034 / You Are The Conductor, the beginning of my instrumental journey; it was as tranquil as morning dew on a field of grass that reminds you, its all yours in those moments.

As years went onward I found delicate candles of flame lighting up the once vast space around me, as I found individuals at shows that were there on the same level of music appreciation talking about Caspian as well, a universal bliss. Lines can be crossed, spread, and found in other areas of the globe, from talking, feeling and enjoying those moments with others engulfed by the flowing music.

When you are at the next Caspian show and just as soon as you are feeling the music to take hold look around, and in that time just know it will feel natural to have your jaw suddenly open as you notice others just like yourself are in the same meditative trance you are in, now enjoy it.

Let's just say I missed out on my effort to see them for a second time as their show was Sold Out! It was bittersweet since I didn't see them perform, but I knew others who may have never seen them now had that privilege and enjoyment I had.

You all heard the records and now watch them live, trust me.

I am happy they are getting the recognition they deserve and I wish them the best on their journey of making the world enormously brighter and beautiful, and to all of you reading You Are The Conductor.

Thank You Caspian
Hear ToStay

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