The Hawkwind offshoot Hawkestrel released its second album, Pioneers of Space, in late 2020. The title is a bit of misnomer, as Hawkwind arguably are the original pioneers of space rock. But considering this collective is comprised of more Hawkwind alumni -- led by bassist Alan Davey -- than any other related project, the title perhaps shouldn’t come as a surprise.
Joining Davey are Nik Turner, Robert Calvert, Huw Lloyd-Langton, Simon House, Michael Moorcock, Paul Rudolph, Mick Slattery and Bridget Wishart. Non-Hawkwinders include Todd Rundgren, Mick Taylor, David Cross, Wayne Kramer, Carmine Appice and more.
Pioneers of Space is particularly noteworthy for being one of the final albums on which the late drummer Ginger Baker played prior to his death in October 2019. His contribution to “Cosmic Divide” makes that song emerge as one of the more memorable among these nine tracks. Two other contributors to the album -- flautist Joel Vandroogenbroeck and vocal Larry Wallis -- also passed away since laying down their tracks. “Hawkestral is proud to keep your legacy’s [sic] alive with new compositions,” the liner notes proclaim, “and there’s more to come!”
That’s great news for listeners who can’t get enough of the vintage space rock on Pioneers of Space, from the dreamy intensity of opening track “Biometrics” to the epic title track that closes this 46-minute sonic journey. In between, you’ll encounter intriguing song titles -- “Atmospheric Window,” “Day of the Quake” -- with music that lives up to their promise, plus an out-of-this-world cover choice. Post Malone’s “Circles,” anyone? By God, this quirky instrumental version heavy on the violin, Mellotron and VCS 3 analog synth runs (get ready for it!) circles around the original.
Track Listing:
1. Biometrics
2. Cosmic Divide
3. Days of the Quake
4. Glass Wolves
5. Atmospheric Window
6. Circles
7. No Doubt
8. Journey
9. Pioneers of Space
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