IN THE WAKE OF EVOLUTION

Less than 3 years after the brilliant (but, alas, criminally underrated) Angling Feelings comes In The Wake Of Evolution, Kaipa´s fifth release since their come back in the 2000´s. Honestly, I was not expecting such powerful (and long) CD in such a short time span. but here it is: 70 minutes of pure 24 carat symphonic prog music. As you may have guessed by its title, the album is strongly influenced by the 70´s classic bands, specially Yes (they even quote the band in one of the opener´s lines: "We´re closer to the edge than yesterday", plus the same Hammond sounds you hear from that era in The Yes Album). And you know what? I love it! At least they´re doing it their own, swedish style.

The line up is the same as on Angling Feelings, with songwriter and keyboards maestro Hand Lundin proving to be one of the best and most prolific prog composers of today. Guitarist Per NIlsson is playing better than ever, showing that he was a very good pick to replace the irreplaceable Roine Stolt. His style of playing is quite similar of that of Stolt´s, so the sound kept its high quality trademark. Vocals are on the controversial side of the band and I reckon they are not everybody´s cup of tea. Still I think the combination of Aleena Gibson´s and Patrick Lundström´s voices work very well within the musical context of the album. You have to admit their unique delivering is quite original and very much part of Kaipa´s sound nowadays. They make the music here sound more modern and less derivative than most retro bands.

Lundun´s songwriting abilities are stunning that combined with the tasteful arrangements and the superb performances of al musicians (and singers) make this CD one of the most enjoyable and exciting releases I´ve heard this year. There is not one weak tune in the whole album. The good production enhanced the strong and enthusiastic playing. The inclusion of recorders and violin on some tracks also gave a slightly sweden folkish and baroque flavour here and there. Nice!

If you´re into classic symphonic prog of the great bands of the 70´s you can´t miss this one! . Rating: between 4,5 and 5 stars. Highly recommended!