GIVEN THE IMPOSSIBLE

Moving forward to a new meadow, far or near doesn't play a role. Released at the end of the year 2016, their sophomore album 'Given The Impossible' is dominated by a new remarkable female singer. Named Marguerita Alexandrou and equipped with a rather exclusive and clear voice, which accurately fits the music, or better leaves an important imprint on it. As a sidenote, while always searching for something special, for me she's looking like Barbra Streisand a bit. Sorry, if ever, in that case a younger incarnation of course. Furthermore, another attraction, this band hailing from London is responsible for song writing, melodies, arrangements and production as a unity.

Works quite well! Hereby they are dealing with dinosaurs, warriors and sirens amongst other issues. Every track has its own characteristics. For example when they are adopting the traditional 'Scarborough Fair', probably bestknown due to the Simon & Garfunkel implementation. Not difficult to recognize, but this is artfully wrapped up by the contrasting Seamless Shirt anyhow. Hence it will not take long until the band's potential is fully evident. The album's centerpiece is made of four intriguing tracks. Starting with the tricky symphonic Industry which incorporates some classical and Flamenco impressions. 'And she loves her country ...' - in between they are sending us A Gentle Warrior - somewhat smart and charming.

Some Dinosaurs dare to feature a rather jazzy interlude and the extended Himalaya Flashmob comes in two stages. In the meanwhile I really adore the second instrumental section, playfully presented, including those Himalayan Sirens. Lobate Scarp, District 97, Touchstone, Big Big Train are bands similar in sound, at least partially. Sending a bravo to the far meadow now. I'm still detecting new facets. All the instruments are played with proper variety, no exception. Thus consequently 'Given The Impossible' has reached for a place on my 2016 Top Twenty List. I strongly recommend to have more than one or two listening sessions.