FOR TRUTH

'For Truth', the latest album released by virtuoso progressive solo artist Marc Carlton, is strewn with an embarrassment of beautiful melodies - but there is so much more to this lush and epic album. These euphonious themes are further elevated by the elegant, ravishing atmospheres built up around them, and the questing, thoughtful progression within tracks which makes them so rewarding to listen to. Every time I listen to this album, a different track particularly strikes a chord within me, and it feels like there is always new subtlety to discover.

A piece I always find especially moving is the entrancing 'One Possible Dream'. So hopeful and poignant; sad, but calm and confident at the same time. The classical guitar sound is perfect, and, well - true. It's epic but in a gentle and very beautiful, graceful way - with subtle ideas masterfully depicted - such as the delicacy of possibility and hope recalled exquisitely by shimmering guitar at 6.58.

'Ghosts Where Once We Hid' could be described as mournful, even grievous - but never negative. This is a reflection, a reminiscence that recalls and re-experiences without harsh judgement. I defy any listener not to feel a sharp pang in their core at 5.30, when the introduction of an EP so pure, peaceful, reflective and melancholy but again not heavy or unpleasant, is like the pure aural essence of bittersweet nostalgia.

More forthright and assertive is 'Mindfire', where the classic Carlton electric guitar sound evokes the determination and drive of a long struggle that ultimately finds resolution and distillation.

'Return From Fading Landscapes', one of 3 tracks on the album to break the golden 10-minute mark, creates a real sense of space and scale - the instruments and percussion allowed to breathe and impart all their subtlety. The achingly beautiful, echoing ending is reminiscent of recollections of distant dreams, or memories on the edge of sleep.

On repeated listens, this album feels like the most confident and mature of Marc Carlton's work to date. That should not be taken to say other releases were less worthy, but that this album is even more satisfying, confident, and complex - and beautifully constructed and skilfully performed throughout. The whole has achieved a new level of integration, which is truly marvellous for the ears and soul.