Jason Bieler and The Baron Von Bielski Orchestra – ‘Songs For The Apocalypse’

Jason Bieler and The Baron Von Bielski Orchestra – ‘Songs For The Apocalypse’

22 January 2021 – Frontiers Music

Words: Mark Green

Jason Bieler, best known for being in glamsters Saigon Kick and being one of the founders of Bieler Bros. Records, has released his second solo album, following on from his first ‘Houston We Have A Problem ‘ released back in 1998.

Bieler sounds like he’s having a blast on this record. It’s an eclectic mix of upbeat eccentricity, delving in to the world’s of prog, hard rock, a little bit of djent and softer moments that Aerosmith would be proud of. Songs like this can set the imagination alight, and I can see these being performed live in the setting of a big theatre production. They are that big in their presence.

The names of those who appear on the album is staggering. They all walk from different paths on the planet of heavy metal – Devin Townsend, Dave Ellefson from thrash legends Megadeth, Todd La Torre of Queensrÿche and the list goes on.

There are numerous catchy numbers to be heard across this 56 minute journey of wonderment. ‘Never Ending Circle’ starts us off in a more sullen way, a complete contrast to what is to come. Things get kicked started with ‘Apology’, a soft prog number with a carnival feel, just to ease us in and make us feel like we’re in for a fun time.
‘Bring Out Your Dead’ has a heavy starting riff to get our neck muscles warmed up, similar to Saliva at their heaviest, before Jason’s vocals soften the blow. 3 minutes we get an off structure keyboard solo, taking us back to the late 70’s of rock classics.
‘Down In A Hole’ has a very smooth but heavy vibe, except for one section that turns in to an evil clown experience, before switching back to the the smooth vibes. It sounds like it should be jarring, but it blends well.
‘Horror Wobbles The Hippo’ is possibly the best name for a song I’ve come across so far this year. This is an instrumental number that sounds like a rock western.
‘Beyond Hope’ begins in an off beat but fun way. As soon as the vocals kick in, you know straight away we’ve got a party on our hands as the distinct and recognisable voice of Benji Webb from reggae metallers Skindred are heard. This is the albums highlight, feeling soulful.
‘Born Of The Sun’ is a wonderful example of the technical aspects of this album, showcasing hard rock prog at its finest, before the calming and gentle ‘Very Fine People’ begins to unwind us and think positive thoughts. We end with ‘Fkswyso’ which is like a lullaby sending us off to another dreamland, away from the one we have just experienced.

Would I consider these songs for the apocalypse? Only if the apocalypse has turned in to a prog party we’re all invited to and the four horseman have brought along the streamers. Enjoy.