Since Rundgren's induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on October 30, 2021, as well as the release of some of the more renowned tunes as digital singles, anticipation has been growing for this "Space Force" release. True to its name, Todd Rundgren's "Space Force," has a diverse collection of musicians from all across the musical spectrum working together as a formidable 'force.'
Mr. Todd Rundgren is a unique fellow. For example, in classic rock and roll rebel fashion, he opted out of attending his own Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Ceremony in protest, rebellion, or whatever you want to call it. It was a bitter surprise for his fans. However, it was expected by many, given his lengthy history of criticism of the Hall of Fame. Of course, it would have been hypocritical for Todd Rundgren, who has been severely critical of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, to go there and receive his induction. You won't catch Todd Rundgren being a hypocrite. In other words, he's the real deal.
Looking back at Todd Rundgren's musical career reveals his inherently rebellious nature. He also is quite diverse with his releases. For example, if Todd Rundgren wanted to release strong music in the vein of Black Sabbath or Led Zeppelin, he could. He hit the mark dead on if he was aiming for a nice Carole King or Laura Nyro vibe. When he decided to drop some pop gold with "The Beatles," he did so with incredible success. The man is able to compose and produce unique music in a wide variety of genres with remarkable accomplishment.
This album (Space Force) builds on the duet concept of his most recent studio album (2017's White Knight). The Roots, Rivers Cuomo of Weezer, Rick Nielsen of Cheap Trick, The Lemon Twigs, Sparks, Steve Vai, rapper Narcy, Neil Finn of Crowd House and Fleetwood Mac, Adrian Belew of King Crimson and Frank Zappa, Alfie Templeman, Davey Lane, and Thomas Dolby are all part of this Space Force of musicians.
Recent years have seen an increase in the usage of Rundgren's music in the soundtracking of important sequences in cinema and television. These include the nominated film Licorice Pizza for an Academy Award and the Emmy-winning series Ozark. We also expect Rundgren's latest studio album, Space Force, to be hailed as "a monument to his individualism in a field that requires performers adopt a path and stay in it."