Following up “Weather Systems,” which was a huge success for Anathema would seem quite a daunting task, but, thankfully, with “Distant Satellites” the band were able to explore a different musical avenue while still retaining the emotional drive of “Weather Systems.” Where this album differs is this time around there elements of electronica interjected into the music and this is most noticeable on the title track, which, for me, remains one of their most powerful and best pieces they ever wrote. The strong rhythmic drive is still here, but it seems that “Distant Satellites” is the darker, more introspective sibling to “Weather Systems,” which I view as an emotionally and musically brighter album. To spin this another way, “Distant Satellites” is the yin to “Weather Systems” yang. An absolutely brilliant, and haunting, album that I’ve returned to quite a bit over the past few months. If you’re already a fan of Anathema, then you already own this album, but, if you’re new to the band, then this might not be the place to start, which, if this was the case, I would recommend “Weather Systems” or “We’re Here Because We’re Here” first. Highly recommended!Anathema are:Vincent Cavanagh – lead vocals, electric guitars, acoustic guitars, bass guitars, keyboards, programming, backing vocalsJohn Douglas – e-drums, percussion, keyboards, programmingDaniel Cavanagh – co-lead vocals, electric guitars, acoustic guitars, bass guitars, keyboards, pianoLee Douglas – lead vocals, co-lead vocals, backing vocalsJamie Cavanagh – bass guitarDaniel Cardoso – drums
