DESOLATION ROSE

As the title implies, this is an uncharacteristically melancholy and sombre album from the Flower Kings, the second studio release of their brief early 2010s return from hiatus (which was followed by a longer hiatus before their more recent reawakening). Retro-prog is still the name of the game, but this time around they seem to have been drinking deep from the oasis of Camel when it comes to seeking inspiration, perhaps inspiring a more emotionally nuanced and thoughtful approach than their more consistently cheerful early material. With tracks like White Tuxedos trying out vocal experiments, there's still some quirkiness here, but it's in the service of a mature look at the world which sees much to worry about - but also moments of joy here and there.