Inspired by modern Mars research and space missions, the album takes listeners on a cinematic expedition across the Red Planet, exploring its landscapes, history and enduring mysteries through grand, richly layered compositions. Recorded with his English Rock Ensemble, Wakeman is joined by Lee Pomeroy, Dave Colquhoun, Adam Falkner and Mollie Marriott, adding fresh energy to his unmistakable keyboard-driven sound.
One of the album's standout moments is Bowie's Vision, a deeply personal tribute to David Bowie and the musical history they shared. The track also brings Wakeman full circle, echoing his legendary piano work on Bowie's Life on Mars?.
Epic, imaginative and unmistakably Wakeman, Return To The Red Planet is a cosmic prog-rock adventure that showcases why he remains one of the genre's most iconic keyboardists.
Side A
The Jezero Crater (6:58)
1.1 Shenandoah
1.2 Hogwallow Flats Pt1
1.3 The Yori Pass
1.4 Hogwallow Flats Pt2
2 Bowie's Vision 5:48
Side B
1 Noctis Labyrinthus 5:31
2 Noachis Terra (Land of Noah) 6:24
Side C
1 Witch Hazel Hill 4:02
2 St. Paul's Bay 6:55
3 Martian Dust Devils 4:56
Side D
1 Medusae Fossae 4:29
The Epochs Of Mars (7:48)
2.1 Noachian
2.2 Hersperian
2.3 Amazonian