TO WATCH THE STORMS

A very solid album with balance between accessibility, compositional qualities and progressive rock elements. It cements the sound set by "Darktown" - updated pop/rock/acoustic elements with influences from the 70's and occasional contemporary elements such as electronica or electronic drums.

"Shrutton Ground" is a quiet back-looped reflective introduction. "Circus of becoming" has two contrasts - circus-like nostalgic lightweight part is replaced with a full-blown church organ supported symphonic part with great electric guitar. One of my highlights. "The devil is an Englishman" has 80's vibe and modern electronica guitar. "Mechanical bride" may be the most progressive song here heavily borrowing from King Crimson. While it's pretty good and maybe the highlight, I don't consider it to be one of the best Hackett songs. "Wind, sand and stars" is a beautiful sublime acoustic guitar song that together with piano, sounds so out in a nature. "This world" has trademark Hackett produced harmonies, while "Rebecca" showcases electronica influence. "The silk road" has Asian or African percussions and excellent acoustic/electric guitar arrangements. "The serpentine song" reminds me bit of "In memoriam", peaceful, quiet and a bit sorrowful.

Recommended for fans of modern accessible progressive rock/pop.