For immediate release
22 December 2021
Drummer Chester Thompson and bassist Alphonso Johnson will contribute their legendary talents as the new powerhouse rhythm section for Unitopia’s forthcoming album ‘Seven Chambers’ set for release mid next year.
Based in Australia since their formation in 1996, founders Mark Trueack (vocals) and Sean Timms (Keyboards) recently expanded the line-up to include British born guitarist/vocalist John Greenwood and US based multi-instrumentalist Steve Unruh. Now the line-up is complete with the addition of Chester and Alphonso.
Both their résumés read like a who’s who of the music industry with Chester having worked with Frank Zappa, Weather Report and over thirty years with Genesis as their touring drummer, whilst Alphonso has also worked with Weather Report as well as Santana, George Duke, Phil Collins, Steve Hackett and countless others both as studio and touring musicians.
“Chester and Alphonso have played the music that has formed the backdrop of my entire life. It’s a privilege to work with them and incredibly gratifying that they appreciate the music of Unitopia and are keen to contribute their amazing talents.” (John Greenwood)
“To work with not only some of the best, most experienced musicians in the world is not only an honour, but incredibly humbling. I am absolutely thrilled to be a part of the re-emergence of Unitopia in it’s current formation.” (Sean Timms)
“Having met Chester in ’86 whilst working with EMI, I immediately felt a connection with him and his easy-going manner. What a wonderful honour to now be working with him thirty-five years later!” (Mark Trueack)
About ‘Seven Chambers’
The current members of Unitopia have trodden varying paths where some have encountered serious heart disease, tumours, metabolic disorders, joint disease and psychological upheaval. The Seven Chambers is a concept album based on the band’s experiences of illness, a dark subject perhaps, but the simple fact that all four are still here and producing music bears witness to good outcomes and is cause for optimism and grounds for hope.
http://www.embamba.com/
https://chesterthompson.com/
Hoping the release is soon!!!
Exact release date is TBD. It depends if the CD set will be released earlier than the Vinyl. The vinyl will be definitely be available for purchase during the European/USA tour.
The new, expanded line-up whets the appetite for the new album. Good luck on the European/USA tour. Looking forward to some dates in Australia after that.
Unfortunately the tour will be limited to Europe and the USA. There may be a UK date or dates as well.
When will seven chambers be out
The release date for 7 Chambers is pending announcement, but will be ‘soon’ (according to Truey).
The new album (7 Chambers) had been delayed due to some health issues within the band. It should be out in about 5 weeks, before the start of the September tour.