25 Yard Screamer

25 Yard Screamer

25 Yard Screamer are a progressive rock group from Carmarthen, United Kingdom. The line-up consists of Matt Clarke on bass guitar, Nick James on guitars and vocals, and Donal Owen on drums. The band has played together since 2002.

Style and influences

The group plays progressive hard rock and progressive rock with a style that draws comparisons to Rush and Marillion. Their music is described as combining melodic guitar lines, strong rhythms, atmospheric sections and longer-form progressive structures, with some material also moving into heavier progressive metal territory.

Albums and key tracks

Cassandra is the band’s third album and is presented as a concept release. It includes the track Blacklight, which runs for over 19 minutes, Insomnia, Boy In The Window, and the title track Cassandra, which extends the Greek myth of Cassandra and her gift of prophecy. The album also features a 29-minute title piece and is described as having been recorded and produced at home. Its release marks a co-promotion deal with Get Ready To Rock.

The earlier promo track Blacklight is described as a mini-prog epic with added sound effects, including playground activity at the start and end, and a “life-journey” theme. The band’s first album is mentioned as having had weak production, while the later material is presented as a major improvement in sound and confidence.

Recording and reception

The band’s work is noted for muscular guitar riffs, pounding rhythms, atmospheric interludes and tuneful songs. Reviewers point to the quality of the musicianship and the way the material moves through different moods while keeping a strong progressive identity. The band’s home recording approach is also part of its profile.