Review: Envy Of None – Stygian Waves

Kscope Records (March 28^th, 2025)

Reviewer – Chris O’Connor

As a devoted admirer of Canadian rock legends Rush, the mere mention of Alex Lifeson’s involvement in a project is enough to grab my attention. Lifeson has long been one of my favourite guitarists, a player of remarkable versatility and depth. Add to that my appreciation for fellow Canadians Coney Hatch, and the prospect of a collaboration between Lifeson and Coney Hatch bassist Andy Curran was nothing short of exhilarating. Their 2022 debut as Envy Of None was a revelation, showcasing a fresh, unexpected side of their musicality. The big question looming over their sophomore effort: could ‘Stygian Waves’ live up to that high standard?

I’m thrilled to report that it absolutely does. ‘Stygian Waves’ is a masterful, immersive experience—genuinely wonderful from start to finish. Envy Of None is far more than just Lifeson and Curran’s playground; the ensemble is completed by the exceptional talents of guitarist/keyboardist Alfio Annibalini and the mesmerizing vocalist Maiah Wynne. This time around, they’re also joined by renowned session drummer Randy Cooke, whose impeccable contributions further enhance the album’s dynamic textures. With Alfio also handling the mix, the result is an audiophile’s dream—crystalline, immersive, and utterly captivating.

From the very first track, ‘Not Dead Yet’, the album hooks you in with its irresistible groove. The song echoes the infectious energy of Geoff Tyson’s post-T-Ride project Stimulator—not a criticism in the slightest, as it rides on a hypnotic rhythm and a cool, driving pulse. The album unfolds like a rich sonic tapestry, each track bringing something fresh and exciting. ‘The Story’ shimmers with dream-pop elegance, Wynne’s haunting vocals weaving through Lifeson’s graceful lead lines.

‘Under The Stars’ introduces Arabic percussion, evoking an atmospheric, cinematic feel reminiscent of alt-rock luminaries Garbage. ‘Thrill Of The Chase’ transports the listener back to the ‘80s, carrying a nostalgic New Romantic air. There’s a hint of Judie Tzuke’s ‘Ritmo’-era vocals and even flashes of The B-52’s at their groovy best. ‘Handle With Care’ embraces the beauty of Shoegaze and Dream Pop, a delicate and ethereal moment where Curran’s intricate programming adds depth and dimension.

‘That Was Then’ exudes a Bowie-esque sophistication—cool, effortlessly modern, and dripping with class. ‘Raindrops’ shifts the mood with its restrained, keyboard-led Alt-Pop sound. Wynne’s voice takes centre stage, the song building and swelling with subtle intensity. ‘New Trip’ delivers yet another modern alt-pop groove, its layered instrumentation—melding keyboards, guitars, and Cooke’s superb drumming—creating a compelling sonic landscape.

‘Clouds’ offers a gorgeous slice of alternative Pop-Rock, even elegantly channelling the ethereal beauty of Bristolian icons Portishead. ‘The End’ maintains the album’s effortlessly cool aesthetic, blending delicate grooves, shimmering instrumentation, and Wynne’s evocative vocals. The closing title track, ‘Stygian Waves’, is a breathtaking fusion of Porcupine Tree’s depth, Rush’s exploratory spirit (as close as Lifeson dares venture toward his legendary past), Orphaned Land’s grooving intensity and even a touch of The Bangles’ melodic charm. It’s an absolute gem, tinged with Middle Eastern influences and graced by another spellbinding vocal performance from Wynne.

In summary, ‘Stygian Waves’ is an absolute triumph—sublime, innovative, and deeply rewarding. It’s clear that the musicians involved have set aside egos in favour of collective brilliance, allowing each member to shine in their own right. This album defies expectations and invites listeners to lose themselves in its beautifully crafted soundscapes. A massive congratulations to Alex, Andy, Maiah, Alfio, and Randy—this will undoubtedly stand among the finest releases of 2025.

Tracklist:

1. Not Dead Yet
2. The Story
3. Under The Stars
4. Thrill Of The Chase
5. Handle With Care
6. That Was Then
7. Raindrops
8. New Trip
9. Clouds
10. The End
11. Stygian Waves

Line-up:

Alf Annibalini – Guitar, Keyboards, Programming

Andy Curran – Bass Guitar, Background Vocals, Guitar, Programming

Alex Lifeson- Guitar, Mandola, Oud, Programming

Maiah Wynne – Lead Vocals, Background Vocals, Keyboards

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Kscope Music / Envy Of None