CORVUS STONE UNSCREWED

It's safe to say that Corvus Stone is unpredictable. Not long ago they released the excellent album "II" to mostly rave reviews. One might expect, therefore, some sort of paus in the creative minds of the band but no. No rest for the wicked, eh? Apparently they found themselves eager to release another album and preferably they wanted it to be released now. Or maybe even yesterday, if possible.

I look at this album as a great retrospective of a band of brilliance. There are old tracks, new tracks and some re-recorded. Thusly, this album is more than just any "Best of..." or "Greatest hits". It is something more. It showcases the past and the present but also points the finger to the future, the place and time when and where Corvus Stone will do even greater things. There is no stopping, this eclectic juggernaut of prog.

As always, the music defies categorization, tripping over any and all genres without hesitation. That is all very well but when the result is such a seamless one, where all blends in a natural way, one cannot be anything but impressed. The music is never forced but flows. And even though this album is a retrospective it feels cohesive, just like "II" did, making it an experience similar to those great masterpieces we all love.

I will not go through each and every track on this album, only conclude that every track is delightful and brings enjoyment and bliss to this album. There is a "late night feel" to the album, which by no means it is neither bland or toothless. On the contrary! The intelligent blend of genres and power, smoothness and explosive instrumentation is simply a masterstroke. This is an album to enjoy every moment of the day. However, one of my absolute favorites is "Cinema finale" with it's impressing instrumentation. The keyboards gives me goosebumps.

I have no problem awarding this album four shining stars and I do it with a feverish longing for what's to come next from Corvus Stone. Certainly one of our times most brilliant bands.