The Cocoon
Richard Henshall · 2019
47 min · 7 tracks · jazz fusion
A mesmerizing blend of intricate guitar work and lush harmonies that intertwine progressive rock with jazz fusion sensibilities.
Top tracks — play these first
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Cocoon — The title track features dynamic shifts in rhythm and intricate melodies, illustrating Henshall's skill in creating immersive atmospheres that define the album's essence.
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Silken Chains — This track showcases Henshall's virtuosic guitar playing paired with rich harmonic layers, reflecting the thematic exploration of transformation and entrapment prevalent throughout the album.
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Twisted Shadows — With its darker undertones and complex time signatures, this piece highlights Henshall's ability to blend jazz influences into progressive rock, creating a unique listening experience.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe album blends progressive rock and jazz fusion with intricate compositions and strong guitar work, establishing Henshall's distinct voice.
What we noticed
- Each track showcases intricate guitar solos that are often layered with synth harmonies, creating a rich sonic texture.
- The final track 'Afterglow' serves as a reflective conclusion, slowing down the pace significantly compared to earlier pieces.
- Composition 25% of the score
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8/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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7/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Little footprint beyond its audience. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- immersive soundscapes for deep focus
- patient unfolding of musical ideas
- cathartic crescendos and releases
- exploratory journeys through complex arrangements
Maybe skip if you
- prefer quick, catchy songs
- seek straightforward song structures
Where this album fits
- Career context
- The Cocoon is Richard Henshall's debut solo album, released after his tenure with the progressive metal band Haken. By 2019, he had established himself as a prominent guitarist and composer, known for blending complex musical structures with emotive melodies. This album marks a significant step in his career, showcasing his unique voice outside of his band work.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Liquid Tension Experiment· Animals as Leaders· Dream Theater
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Pupa 2:25
- 2 Cocoon 10:26
- 3 Silken Chains 8:10
- 4 Limbo 3:54
- 5 Lunar Room 8:21
- 6 Twisted Shadows 8:46
- 7 Afterglow 5:16
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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