TALISMAN

NEOGRASS is a music project hailing from the Tromsø region in Norway, comprised of the core multi-instrumentalists Emil Bekkevold and Tore Morten Andreassen. Probably interesting to know, they've made a major move. Because prior to the release of their debut album 'The Sea Of Tranquility' in 2010 they actually were constituted to play bluegrass music, yeah! And then, after two more albums in the pipeline, they even decided to give birth to a new talisman. That saw the light of day in 2021, inspired by the eponymous fantasy-themed board game. Okay, I mean this album, which actually is appealing, also showcasing drummer Bjørn André Syverinsen contributing. And so here we have 14 compact songs at hand. Anyway, with reason one can say they are building an entertaining chain, or suite, if you will, with a total play length of round about 55 minutes.

This is overly neo and art prog styled, melodic and heartwarming stuff. At the latest the charming ballad Surrender proves that Emil Bekkevold is equipped with a volatile smooth singing voice for sure. But they are able to rock the boat too, for example proved by the following song Lost Search or the closing Me And You. Then I would like to point out Travel as the album masterpiece. A lively bass and the superb drumming are serving a priceless groove. The flow is simply impeccable! The short pressing Up You Go also marks a remarkable tune with excellent lead guitar presence. Furthermore the atmospheric Awake that comes with slight Mellotron backing and some Genesis feel. And then, surprise, some bluegrass really, definitely, due to a banjo involved on Passacaglia. 3.5 stars. Worth to be checked out if you like some well made gentle prog music.