THE MYSTIC AND THE MUSE

First off, since it's only an EP I don't feel like giving 4 or 5 stars for that kind of album would be fair. This being said the first song "The Mystic and the Muse" is the real highlight here. It's a strong, varied composition with a certain 70's feel and a dramatic opening. Problem here, but maybe only for me, I've seen it played live a few days ago at a Renaissance gig (where I bought the EP) and that live version was much more powerful and grandiose. It was so good the studio version presented here seems pale compared to what I've heard that night. The synth sounds muffled in the intro. The pleasure the group had playing it live isn't totally matched on the recording. But still I think it's a great Renaissance composition.

A word on the two other songs featured on the EP. Immortal Beloved is much slower than the first song. It's simple and melodious with vocal harmonies and piano but not highly prog. The last song, Tonight, is different. Haslam's voice is at the fore-front, seconded again by the piano. It's not the kind of song I usually like, not really prog, although Haslam demonstrates she can still deliver the merchandise and sing very high notes. And this is absolutely true on the two other songs as well. Her vocal range is absolutely phenomenal and you can feel it as soon as the first notes of the album are sung.

The good news is that this EP is the prologue of a full album that is planned to be released next year. If the overall quality of the compositions is at par with the Mystic and the Muse, classic Renaissance fans will be very happy. I'm really eager to hear the full album to come!

To conclude, since it's an EP I think it's really meant for fans and they should get it if not already done.