Album Review: Hawkwind – ‘There is No Space For Us’
This is a very special album from a band I’ve followed passionately for decades—Hawkwind, with their latest release, ‘There is No Space For Us’.
I’ve followed Hawkwind since the early 1970s, captivated by classics like “Silver Machine” and “Urban Guerrilla.” Their journey has seen countless groundbreaking releases, box sets, and remastered treasures, but what’s remarkable is their consistent evolution and daring creativity, even after all these years.
This new album follows closely on the heels of their recent masterpieces, ‘The Future Never Waits‘ and ‘Stories from Time and Space. If ‘The Future Never Waits’ stunned me by being my second-favourite Hawkwind record after ‘Warrior on the Edge of Time‘, ‘There is No Space For Us’ might just surpass that incredible feat.
Album Highlights
“There is Still Danger There” is a hypnotic opener, infused with space rock synths and urgent themes about ecological catastrophe.
“Space Continues (Life Form)” showcases pulsating layers of synths and even teeters delightfully close to jazz fusion.
“The Co-pilot” brings acoustic warmth, showcasing Hawkwind’s versatile dynamics with a melodic shuffle and layered vocals.
“Changes (Burning Suns & Frozen Waste)” blends dreamy textures with potent rock, a trademark synthesis.
“There is No Space For Us” emerges with a bluesy feel, quickly escalating into a driving hard-rock symphony enriched by atmospheric depth.
The Outer Region of the Universe” is a standout with trippy, ambient echoes and a groovy bass line, brilliantly exploring the expanses of sonic possibilities.
Neutron Stars (Pulsating Light)” intensifies the experience, bringing a punk-like aggression combined with Hawkwind’s unmistakable cosmic groove.
“A Long, Long Way From Home” closes the album gently, weaving serene instrumental textures and spoken whispers, perfectly concluding the journey.
Dave Brock, the creative force behind Hawkwind, continues to demonstrate unparalleled artistry. His vision and songwriting have reached new heights, driving the band into a reinvigorated, modern soundscape that feels astonishingly fresh and powerful. The ensemble, including Brock, delivers performances full of synergy, energy, and innovation.
For those wondering how relevant Hawkwind can still be, I urge you to experience this album. It doesn’t feel like nostalgia or retreading old glories—it feels like a vibrant new chapter from a band at the peak of their creative power.
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine
