MOON LETTERS Proves Progressive Power on ‘Thank You From the Future’

“Thank You From the Future” is Moon Letters‘ second album, released in 2022, following the success of 2019’s “Until They Feel the Sun.” It’s not overconfident to say that their sophomore album is quite a magical journey through the past, staying true to the elements of progressive music.

The Seattle-based quintet has created an amalgam of traditional progressive influences with symphonic, blues, jazz, and psychedelic echoes, all being beautifully mixed in a modern and unique style. While they constantly change the tempo, mood, and musical themes, the record feels focused, intense, and somewhat chillingly atmospheric.

And as you would expect, all musicians are on fire. Should we mention that their debut album with renowned producer Barret Jones (Foo Fighters) has garnered positive reviews internationally? Well, “Thank You From the Future” does not fail to surprise. Enhanced with fantastic cover art by surrealist artist Mariano Peccinetti, “Thank You From the Future” evokes a retrofuturistic setting, all the while providing the chance to reflect on times past while eagerly waiting for a new path forward.

After listening to the 41 minutes-record, you’ll quickly notice that Moon Letters has successfully created a roller-coaster of a musical ride. All tracks are incredible, deliciously fresh, and playful. It may be emotionally attached because it acknowledges the influences of King Crimson, Yes, Genesis, or Gentle Giant. Oh, and then there’s Michael Trew‘s voice, not necessarily complementing Moon Letters’ music but illuminating it.

The opening track, ‘Sudden Sun,’ has the shortest duration, yet it immediately plugs you into this elaborate progressive atmosphere. If you are a prog fan, you will find yourself comfortable here, as the intricate plots and the retro-style choral vocals offer a safe and warm cocoon. Follow-up ‘The Hrossa‘ begins with an expressive vocal, turning the track into a much softer piece than the opening one. Adorned with specific tempo changes and increasing intensity, the track becomes more and more elaborate—the soft blend of classic and prog rock offering such excellent lead inserts.

‘Mother River’ has some robust sounds but with a dark touch, opening with Webb’s ode to Jimi Hendrix, which sounds so wonderfully like ‘Little Wing.‘ The engaging accelerations, the tempo, and the retro imprint brings the present day back with a personal touch of the 70s sounds. ‘Isolation and Foreboding‘ closes side one of the album and the Space Trilogy. Here you’ll find more complex sounds and intricate guitar and bass textures. The choral vocals yet again engage and range over various tones, exposing high-level ideas of instrumental sections and combining innovation and tradition of the progressive genre.

Side B of the album opens with ‘Child of Tomorrow,‘ a track with dreamy sounds, initially softening the previous prog tracks, then building in intensity. This track combines more elaborate progressive with symphonic traits with fantastic techniques. On ‘Fate of the Alacorn,‘ reminiscences of the ’70s are noticeable, bringing them into a more modern contact with unique features and valuable instrumental phrasing.

Closer ‘Yesterday is Gone‘ opens with a powerful electric guitar sound, while Michael Trew adds flute to take the track over the top. There is the right list of ingredients for listening to pure progressive music, showcasing quality, and technique both in the executive and compositional phases. It is only evident that Moon Letters‘ music majestically captures the brilliance of the past while providing innovative sounds and stories, almost drawing you in. “Thank You From the Future” is a listening recommended for all progressive lovers who appreciate the most modern sounds. Because it sounds so new and exciting, you’ll know you are listening to something profound that will stay close to your side.