STRANGER SKIES

This is the 4th album from Ellesmere, lead by Italian progger Roberto Vitelli, and is firmly in the style of classic symphonic prog ala Genesis and Yes. Vitelli has assembled an accomplished band of musicians perfectly suited to the prog workout displayed here, with all the intricate instrumental passages and soloing to make successful prog, and are joined on this album by vocalist John Wilkinson, who sings in a voice and style suspiciously similar to Phil Collins. Thus, all the pieces are there, the vocals are fine and the instrumental sections do achieve a grandness and virtuosic satisfaction. However, to me, it just seems a bit too safe, ordinary, or run of the mill, and just going through the motions. What is missing here are great songs, as the songs and melodies here are just ok, nothing special. They just are not very engaging or compelling. Great playing all around, but the songs themselves just don't do much for me. Still enjoyable to listen to, but I can't get too excited about it, even with some great musicianship on display. Rating: 3 stars