I don’t know what’s in the water in Poland, but between Riverside and Glass Island, there is some terrific music being produced there. Glass Island is the project of one Wojciech Pieluzec, who writes, sings, and plays everything.  I first became aware of Glass Island’s work via a Spotify algorithm: I have a personal playlist called “Melodic Prog Music”, and based on the songs in it, Spotify recommended Glass Island’s “Almost Human”, from their Lost Media album.

“Almost Human” immediately grabbed my attention with its excellent melody, Pieluzek’s winsome vocals, and his fluid lead guitar work. It’s an instant prog classic, in my opinion. I love the lyrics, which warn of the dangers of AI-powered social media:

I follow all your actions
Observe your manner, steal your style
Inspect your gestures predict your movements
Write your songs, sing your lines

Forgive me if I seem a bit peculiar
I need a little time to end up just the same as you

So trust in me, I’m almost human
I’ll recreate what goes on in your mind
Just trust in me, I’m almost human
I’ll make up for the mess you’ve left behind

With me, the best lyrics aren’t worth beans if they aren’t delivered in a good melody, and in that department Glass Island delivers. They have a unique sound, but I can hear hints of classic Genesis, Pink Floyd, and Porcupine Tree. Pieluzek possesses the talent to place him at the same level as Steven Wilson; he’s that good. Of the seven tracks on Lost Media, there isn’t a single throwaway. I love how he has mixed the first three songs to seamlessly flow one into the next, making for an immersive listening experience.

Other than “Almost Human”, the other standout track is the 9-minute “Past the Truth”, which features some very nice piano navigating some clever chord progressions. I also admire the multitracked vocals that Pieluzek has put together here.

Whenever I come across a new artist I like, I try to support them by purchasing a hard copy of their album, if available. Sure enough, Glass Island has media available on Bandcamp, and I quickly placed an order for Lost Media. When it arrived in my mailbox, Mr. Pieluzek was kind enough to include a copy of the EP Secular. It’s just as good as any song from Lost Media!

The title track is an aural blast of fun that gets in my ear and stays there. There’s a terrific vocal interlude that recalls the Beach Boys at their best, and it’s followed by an outstanding guitar solo that is a model of melodic economy. Okay, I’ve raved enough – time for you to check Glass Island out on your favorite music service. And if you find yourself enjoying his work as much as me, consider supporting Pieluzek by purchasing some hard media. He’s obviously put a lot of thought into the booklet’s artwork, and artists like him deserve prog fans’ support, so he can continue to produce such fine music!