Flitcraft | Transmission Echo | Pitch Black Records

 

Release Date: October 17th, 2025

Format: CD, LP, Digital

Genre: Progressive Heavy Rock

Country: Australia

Flitcraft was born in Melbourne out of isolation and imagination. During the pandemic, singer and guitarist Phillip T. King (known from Galaxy and Butterfly) began crafting what would become one of the most interesting new acts in Australian progressive rock. With drummer Jack Samuels and bassist Zac Halpin joining soon after, Flitcraft turned from a solo vision into a full band with growing ambition. Two albums later, they arrive at their third release, “Transmission Echo”, through Pitch Black Records, continuing their cosmic journey through rich melodies, vintage energy and warm, human emotion.

The album opens with “Days”, a prelude that immediately builds a sense of anticipation before “Talus” bursts into view. The guitars shimmer with a classic tone, the rhythm section moves with purpose, and King’s voice brings personality and brightness. There’s a strong sense of optimism in how the band plays, music that looks to the stars but keeps its feet firmly on rock ground. “Anxiety Machine” spins its name into motion with restless drumming and guitar interplay that nods to Deep Purple’s fiery style.

The ten-minute “Years” stands as the heart of the album. It’s ambitious, emotional, and filled with shifts that recall Iron Maiden’s gallop, Pink Floyd’s atmospheric side, and the positive reach of Yes. The song unfolds with patience, revealing layers of melody and tone that invite repeated listening. Later, “Turncoat Blues” keeps things grounded, catchy, and brisk, before the closing title track “Transmission Echo” ends everything in a dreamlike state. It’s spacious, melodic, and strangely comforting, like a transmission from a faraway place you’ve somehow always known.

Flitcraft sounds connected to something genuine here. The music draws from the best of classic progressive and heavy rock but plays with a freshness that feels personal rather than nostalgic. The production is warm, detailed, and lets the instruments breathe naturally. The album’s pacing is deliberate, creating an unbroken sense of discovery across its 43 minutes.

“Transmission Echo” is the kind of album that rewards time and attention. It doesn’t chase trends, and it doesn’t rely on bombast. Instead, it unfolds like a journey, built on melody, adventure and a quiet sense of wonder. Flitcraft has created something that stands apart in its sincerity and musical depth, a record that reminds listeners why progressive rock still matters when played with heart.

Score: 8.3

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