THE MERLIN BIRD

So far this is their only release, 17 minutes of charming, melodic folk music. The music is largely vocally driven, but there is a good variety of vocalists carrying this torch, including multiple male and female vocalists. The opening track, for example, is carried forward by the lead male vocals and the drumming, but swirling layers of female vocals behind it give it great character.

I discovered these guys because of their opening and closing tracks (Rhyme to Reason and Reason to Rhyme, respectively), which were included on the CD in an issue of Classic Rock Presents Prog. But the entire album is up to the quality these tracks hinted at, with lush arrangements and lovely, melodic music. The frail female vocals in "Father of all Storms", singing "All will be well, I know somehow all will be well" are a particular emotional highlight.

The only downside is that, being an EP, this album will be over long before you are ready for it to end. I know that for me, it definitely got many back-to-back listens for this reason! Let's hope that the band is able to complete their next record soon.