RETURN TO WHATEVER

Another year, another album by Taylor's Universe, and yet another really, really strong production.

This time around Taylor has rejuvenated his band, taking with him many of the musicians involved in the Art Cinema project. And at least for this production, long time collaborator Karsten Vogel isn't partaking.

What we get are compositions with Taylor's trademark warm keys in various guises dominating as ususal, some stellar guitarwork by Taylor as well as Michael Denner; with soloing from violin player Tassone and sax player Sindvald adding additional moods and textures.

The compositions are repetetive and hypnotic in their basic foundations, one or more themes repeated with keys, guitars, sax and violin having a field day in fleshing out moods, creating additional sound layers and subsequent compelling themes and variations of the melodic foundation/s. Hard to place in style as usual, but I think it's safe to say that fans of art rock and symphonic prog camn be considered a target audience.

Pretty close to perfection yet again from this band, and highly recommended.