OMNI

If anyone was still unsure about Antony Kalugin's place in modern symphonic prog, OMNI lands as a direct and elegant answer. There are no empty gimmicks or pretentious concept-dressing here. What you get is a solid, inspired, and — most importantly — cohesive album from start to finish. And yes, it's made up of just two tracks. Want a two-song album done right? This is how you do it: two long suites where every section breathes, evolves, connects, and moves you. No filler, no awkward pauses.

Kalugin remains a creative machine — releasing music at an insane pace, and still keeping the quality consistently high. Actually, he keeps getting better. OMNI isn't just another good record from him — it's probably his best so far. It's got that vintage symphonic prog flavor, but with modern production that feels clean, warm, and alive. Nothing sounds artificial — everything feels organic.

One of the album's biggest strengths is its guest lineup. Richard Sinclair (Camel, Caravan) brings his classic and unmistakable touch. John Hackett adds that pastoral breeze so typical of old-school British prog. And the musicians from Mystery (yes, the Canadians) bring emotional depth and melodic weight right when it's needed. The vocals overall are packed with real feeling — no cookie-cutter singers or cold studio polish here. It's sung from the heart, and you can tell.

As for the musicianship — no complaints. The guitar work shines with tasteful, melodic lines that never overstay their welcome. Every note feels intentional. And the way the album builds its climax is just masterful. It all flows naturally — no clunky shifts or forced transitions. This is an album meant to be heard as a whole — and it earns that.

The "all is one, and one is all" concept isn't just some abstract idea thrown into the lyrics. It's reflected in how the different parts of the album speak to each other — like separate stories from the same shared consciousness. The music carries that message without pushing it too hard. That's its real strength: yes, it's progressive — but it's also human, honest, and full of emotion.

OMNI is a modern gem of symphonic prog. As classic as it is fresh, as technical as it is heartfelt. And once again, Kalugin absolutely delivers.

Music: ★★★★

Lyrics: ★★★★

Execution: ★★★★

Emotion: ★★★★

Production: ★★★★

Artwork: ★★★★

Average: ★★★★

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