"Review: J. Mark Crider’s The Black Robe Ep – A Prophetic Prog Rock Odyssey"
J. Mark Crider’s The Black Robe Ep, now streaming on SoundCloud, is a bold fusion of progressive rock and prophetic vision, weaving esoteric spirituality into a sonic tapestry. Across five tracks, Crider—a Jackson, TN, Song Writer—explores divine warfare, cosmic revelation, and spiritual decay with unflinching intensity.
The EP opens with “The Accuser,” a rhythmic, aggressive anthem exposing the “spirit of the enemy” manifesting in loved ones, its jagged riffs mirroring lyrical tension. “Monster” delves deeper into existential struggle, while “The Ancient of Days” shifts into transcendent terrain. Inspired by Crider’s real prophetic out-of-body experience, the track channels visions of the Hebrew Atik Yomin (Ancient of Days) observed from Orion’s star Mintaka, blending ethereal melodies with cosmic grandeur.
“Anxiety” captures claustrophobic dread through dissonant harmonies and driving rhythms, reflecting modern spiritual unrest. Closing the EP, “Lilith” is a haunting meditation on relationship-destroying spirits at the end of the age. Harp-laced intro/outros frame its melancholy melody, juxtaposing beauty with apocalyptic urgency.
Crider’s vocals—raw and reverent—anchor the chaos, supported by producer and engineer David Cowell (guitars, keys, strings, BGV) and guitarists Jack Kirton, Chase Perkins, and Damian Bogey, whose solos electrify the narrative. Recorded at Memphis’ Supernova Sound Studio, the production balances prog-rock intricacy with primal emotion.
For listeners craving depth, The Black Robe Ep is divine revelation. Crider’s audacious blend of faith, prophetic vision, and prog rock innovation demands repeat listens.
Stream this visionary journey on SoundCloud—where heaven and hell collide in sound.
