NIGHT DREAMS & WISHES

The playing time of 78 minutes is really something, but it is worth listening. About a year ago I read on the MRE website that originally Night Dreams & Wishes should had been a double album. However, Vladimir decided to put aside from the album some less important pieces. Now in my opinion this concept album or better to call it as an author does - a "Suite" is a real masterpiece. I never considered myself as a fan of the heaviest wings of progressive rock. Therefore my first impression after listening to the the Dark Kingdom and the Evil King was mixed. First 6 pieces: Intro, Overture, Night Comes, Barocco Scherzo, Childhood, Insomnia got me from the very start. Childhood reminded me of my school days, I even felt certain nostalgy.' End of Childhood 'First Love' and its transition into Insomnia revived my personal memories of the first sleepless nights caused by emotions of youth. Frankly speaking Insomnia sends shivers down my spine - a great tapping by Enver Izmaylov on 2 guitars simultaneously, flute and percussion in a very avant-gardish piece are charming. But after that' the Suite started galloping and pictures were drastically changing! Dark intro of Mellotron and synths in Dark Kingdom and the Evil King and on and on. Though I must admit that after the 2nd listen the Dark Kingdom and the Evil King ideea became absolutely clear to me. Gladiators, and then - Hymn to Freedom and Gladiators' Feast positively impressed me. After these parts the Suite flows from the harsh emotional culmination to the final which underlines the Suite's resume - encourage you to dream, see your dreams in sleep and then - you must wake up and work hard to make your dream come true. I totally agree to this concept in life and its reflection in Vladimir's music. For me the final piece 'Want some more?' was very logical with a furious vocal outburst of Vladimir - it reflects emotions of a man who is ready to fight for victory and happiness. I suspect that in his personal life Vladimir has often been a Gladiator and he knows what he is singing about.'

It is a very emotional, sincere and strong album.