A LIGHT IN THE SKY

A light in the sky is a mixed but inspired bag of songs that show how versatile a hard-rock keyboard player can be. The album contains instrumental electronic tinged music, progressive rock and jazz driven compositions as well vocalized hard-rock numbers. The first track sets the exploratory mood to continue with a semi progressive, semi-Jarreau-like work. As displayed here and continuing throughout the album, there is not much detail laid on the compositional side of things, the groove and sound take preference. Since every number differs significantly from the previous one, there's a certain guarantee that the listener won't get bored. "Shooting start" is the closest number to Deep Purple with similarly scoped vocals and guitar riffs. "Space Troll Patrol" bears basic resemblance to the ELP sound - probably the most popular keyboard instrument by Don Airey - Hammond organ. The second part of the album is actually more interesting for the progressive listener since instrumental tracks have even more dominance there. "Sombrero M140" is versed between jazzy chops and Latin grooves. "Into Orbit" is a violin-piano duo and reminds of acoustic jazz-fusion tracks of the late 70's. "Big crunch" may well be the most appropriate track for a progressive listener - packed with instrumentation from various keyboards, tempo changes and drum solo, there is plenty of stock to be consumed. The last virtuoso piano track sets more reflective mood and showcases the instrumental prowess by Don Airey.

Overall, this is a recommended effort for accessible rock with progressive and jazz influences.