DarWin (stylized as DarWin) is a multinational progressive‑rock project featuring Simon Phillips (drums), Matt Bissonette (vocals, bass) and the guitarist‑composer known as DarWin, whose identity has not been publicly disclosed. The project combines progressive‑rock structures with a strong emphasis on groove, melody and detailed production. The collaboration began as an exploration of songcraft and album‑oriented composition. Phillips and DarWin developed the musical framework, later forming a long‑term songwriting trio with Matt Bissonette in 2015. Their goal was to create music that felt both contemporary and rooted in classic progressive‑rock traditions, balancing rhythmic complexity with accessible melodic ideas. DarWin’s first single, “Escape the Maze,” was released on 28 November 2018, followed two days later by the debut album Origin of Species. A music video for the single appeared on YouTube shortly before the album’s release. Origin of Species was issued digitally in November 2018 and on CD in February 2019. The project was conceived as a multimedia work rather than a conventional album, presenting a large‑scale conceptual narrative. The record spans 17 tracks and runs over 80 minutes, addressing themes such as climate change and the future challenges facing humanity. The album was recorded primarily at Phantom Recordings in Sherman Oaks, California, with additional sessions at various studios including Abbey Road Studios in London. Production was handled jointly by DarWin and Simon Phillips. The release features contributions from several guest musicians, among them Jeff Babko, Greg Howe, Dennis Hamm, Ernst Tibbs, Katisse Buckingham, and Masala B.
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