THE MYSTIC AND THE MUSE

This three song EP is currently available in streaming form from the newly established official Renaissance website (the first time the band have had an official site). While only Annie Haslam and Michael Dunford remain from the classic line up, the sextet which recorded these tracks boasts some impressive credentials.

The opening track, which gives the EP its name, is the most impressive and indeed progressive song the band have recorded in many a year. The rich orchestration and complex arrangement come together with Haslam's legendary voice to create something on a par with epics such as "Ashes are burning" and "The song of Scheherazade".

"Immortal beloved" is a softer piece which is dominated by Haslam's vocals. The harmonised choruses see her stretching that voice to the limits of her incredible range. The song is reminiscent of the band's classic "At the harbour".

The final track "Tonight" begins as another gentle number, but builds through soaring piano and grand orchestration. Annie's voice never sounded better as she delivers the song with passion and grace.

With the band undertaking an ambitious tour in 2010, hopefully this EP is the precursor to a full album. If the contents of the EP are anything to go by, we can look forward to an album which draws on everything which made Renaissance great, while looking to the future with much optimism.

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