Amethyst Resurfaced
We are thrilled to announce the release of Amethyst (Resurfaced) by FM Records (who have released a plethora of monumental albums we grew up to), a remixed and remastered version of one of our most cherished songs. Originally praised for its compelling lyrics and an evocative lyric video created by the talented Afsoon Shahriari (who also designed the original artwork) the track now boasts a refreshed, balanced sound.
The original production had its challenges, with a dense mix that we didn’t manage to address fully at the time. Despite this, the song garnered rave reviews upon its initial release. Now, over a decade later, Amethyst (Resurfaced) has been reimagined with the expertise of Mark Chudnovskyi. Mark has worked wonders, refining the stereo image while staying true to the heart of the original recordings. The result is a sound that captures the authenticity of its era, with a modern edge that breathes new life into the track.
The visual concept of the Amethyst series is equally striking. Afsoon Shahriari’s original artwork featured the Amethyst Key symbolising wisdom, clarity, and spiritual insight. The key was partially buried on a vast, low-tide beach reminiscent of the East Coast of Northern England. For this remastered release, we’ve evolved the design: the key, an antique skeleton key sourced from Tynemouth Market and adorned with an Amethyst crystal, is now fully uncovered with the tide rolling in. This stunning new photograph was taken at Whitley Bay and brilliantly brought to life by Aris Liapis, who handled the layout and colour correction for both versions.
Amethyst (Resurfaced) is more than a remaster; it’s a tribute to the spirit of creativity and the enduring connection between music and art. We hope it resonates with both long-time fans and new listeners alike.
Listen now and experience Amethyst anew.
Mind Matters
October is Mental Health month, and the 10th is the International Mental Health Day, so we are allowed to bring up a heavy, for many, subject.
Mental health has long been a taboo subject in our society, shrouded in stigma and silence, whilst for too many years, discussing one’s mental well-being has been viewed as a sign of weakness or an admission of vulnerability. This silence has hindered progress in understanding and addressing mental health issues effectively, but thankfully; the tide is turning as more individuals and organizations are breaking down these barriers, championing open conversations, and emphasising the importance of seeking help and support when needed. It’s time to recognise that mental health is just as vital as physical health, and discussing it openly is a significant step towards fostering a healthier and more empathetic society.
As per CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) 125 lives are lost every week to suicide. And 75% of all UK suicides are male. You don’t have to have a history of mental health issues in order to hit ‘rock bottom’ and the triggers can be unexpected.
If you’re feeling down, call someone up, go to the pub (provided that doesn’t negatively impact you), or talk to a stranger; and if a friend seems down, take the time and talk to them.
Listen to sad music and pay attention to the lyrics – it is comforting to know someone understands. Then get better and pay attention to the music!
Engage with your local Talking Therapies. They can be regarded as too busy to take you on in public conscience, and similarly as only offering that many appointments, but you will be surprised by how quickly you will see someone following your assessment should that be deemed necessary, and you might get help gain a new perspective, and turn what’s ‘eating you’ into a tool to bring about positive change for yourself and others.
If you’re having panic attacks remind yourself that this too shall pass next time you get an ‘aura’, and if you’re on medication take it as prescribed and avoid alcohol and/or illicit drugs.
If you’re overwhelmed call the Samaritans on 116 123 (please look up your local services online)
Please click here for a fairly comprehensive list of relevant services from Mind‘s website here.
And please remember that no matter how bad, life is better than the other option!
We are going to share a few stories regarding mental health this month and you will realise how come the third album has taken so long already (we have things to announce to you soon). Be Excellent to Each Other!
Aural Effect
Phase‘s 5th single from the forthcoming 3rd album is here and we are really happy with how it sounds! Originally meant to be released on March 1st, after a long history of postponement, it made sense that we’d keep it for our Record Store Day show at the hmv. Everybody in the world knows what happened with that. But no epidemics of plagues of Egypt are going to stop us this time… So we’ll leave you with Floral Effect, and we’ll go back to producing our new album as we are more productive than ever! Please tell us what you think of it.
THEIR REMASTER’S VOICE
Phase is celebrating the 10th anniversary of In Consequence‘s recording with the release of 2 CD versions and a party/in store performance @ HMV Newcastle. Although the CD’s won’t be sold prior to that, they will be availiable for pre-order for people outside the UK through www.phase.org.uk . We are fairly certain Nipper is wagging his tail somewhere in dog heaven right now!
IT’S ONLY PROG, BUT I LIKE IT
The Smile out of the newly released single that features a mix by Devon Graves [a.k.a. Buddy Lackey (Psychotic Waltz / Deadsoul Tribe) ] is on the celebratory collector’s PROG Magazine‘s CD sampler this month!
Phase is kicking off their mini European tour that starts in October in Poland with more dates to be announced soon!
