ASHES ARE BURNING

Renaissance

Symphonic Prog

4.26 | 877 ratings

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ZowieZiggy
Prog Reviewer

I have to say that some parts from their previous album "Prologue" have disappeared a bit with "Ashes". At least during the first side of the vinyl album.

Compositions are less passionate and more on the mellow side. I am not thrilled with the long opening "Can You Understand". I probably can't.None of these A-side songs are bad of course, but they lack some emotion IMO. As if the band was less inspired.

The piano play is still very pleasant, Annie's voice is still shining. So. What's wrong? I really don't know, but this feeling has always prevailed. It is probably due to a more folkish approach of their music. This mood has definitely inspired bands such as "Karnataka" and "Mostly Autumn" (but I quite like them).

Some orchestrations are also a bit too invading to my taste. Nothing too serious but it just add to my overall feeling. Still, "Let It Grow" is my favorite of the first side while the mellowish sound is back again for "On The Frontier".

To get up and turn the vinyl album is a rewarding exercise (which you don't need to do with the CD, you lucky youngsters).

To listen to "Carpet Of The Sun" is a real enchantment. Finally, a great "Renaissance" song full of poetry, aerial and so great vocals. The melody of this beautiful song helps in providing a very good feeling about this one.

And I admit that the good mood is going on during "At The Harbour". Very tranquil piano intro and sweet vocals are the main ingredients of this gentle song. It paves brilliantly the way to the epic title track. Fully "Renaissance", bombastic at times, great organ play (quickly combined with piano of course), this is another excellent piece of work.

Mostly instrumental, featuring even a guitar solo (but it is not the first time in these early "Renaissance days) this song is one of the highlights of this good album. Three stars (only due to its weaker A-side).

ZowieZiggy | 3/5 | 2008-3-21

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