The Tangent - Was

The Tangent - Was (double album)

White Knight Records

Andie Tillison of The Tangent clearly had a lot to share—so much so that he delivered not just a single album, but a double CD set titled Was.

Was 1 consists of three tracks, opening with the massive 22-minute title track, "Was." It begins like a classical orchestral piece before evolving into something spectacular. Andie handles keyboard duties alongside his lead vocals, delivering what is easily his finest singing to date—warm, beautiful, and heartfelt. You can tell he truly lives through his lyrics. After the epic title track comes "Follow the River," a short, funky breathing space that is well worth the listen. The first CD concludes with "Was Not," another magnificent 20-minute epic.

Tillison was clearly brimming with inspiration, and he is backed by a stellar lineup. Progressive rock legend John Jowitt shines on bass throughout. Guitarist Luke Machin is an absolute powerhouse that everyone in the scene knows and respects. Drummer Steve Roberts may be less of a household name, but he is an amazingly tasteful and versatile musician, transitioning effortlessly from heavy rock to jazz. As a drum enthusiast, I was thoroughly impressed. Rounding out the lineup is no one less than Theo Travis (Soft Machine, Steven Wilson), whose work on wind instruments adds immense depth.

Was 2 takes a different turn, featuring five instrumentals and tracks and one with vocals, all with French titles. It opens with "L'Apéritif," and all tracks are generally shorter than those on the first disc, though “Multipartisanisme" still stretches near the 16-minute mark. Standout moments include “La Route Cotiere" which showcases phenomenal bass interplay between Jowitt and Travis alongside brilliant guitar work from Machin, and the closing track "Laissez-moi chanter," where Andie's vocals and Travis’s saxophones truly shine.

Throughout both discs, Andie’s keyboard work is phenomenal—whether he is driving the song with hammering organ and synth lines or delivering delicate classical piano. His electric piano playing (which captures that classic Fender Rhodes sound beautifully) is a highlight.

Was 1 and Was 2 demand your full attention. This is complex, rewarding listening music—orchestral, heavy, subtle, and intensely jazzy (especially the second disc). Grab a good pair of headphones, take your time, and let the music wash over you. As a long-time Tangent fan, I can confidently say this is Andie Tillison’s finest work yet. Fantastic job, Andie!