IN THE WAKE OF EVOLUTION

Easily one of the contenders for album of the year in 2010, in spite of some pretty tight competition, the new album from Kaipa delivers on all fronts, and provides us with some of the finest in modern symphonic prog.

Roine Stolt - who he? Okay, a little tongue in cheek, but it has to be said that his absence here really is not noticed at all. Talking of The Flower Kings, Reingold here cements his reputation, in my opinion, as the finest modern bassist there is in this type of music. His playing thunders throughout.

The flavour of this album moves from bombastic, to marvellous folk, all achieved with some of the tightest musical performances you will ever have the privilege of hearing. It takes its influences from the classic symphonic bands, most noticeably Yes, but also fuses it with that unique Scandinavian brand of modern progressive rock. Those of you who, like me, are also fans of prog folk will hear a lot here to delight your ears. For instance, the humble recorder has never sounded as good as it does on this album.

I especially love Aleena Gibson's vocal performance on this, and, to be honest, my only minor quibble on the work as a whole would be my desire to hear more of her in front than Lindstrom. Her performance on In The Heart Of Her Own Magic is nothing less than stunning, and this is one of the tracks which has, at its heart, a strong folk flavour. Having said that, the vocal harmonies between the two are joyous.

The tone all the way through this album is relentlessly upbeat, and, indeed, listening to it almost makes me forget the foul wet weather we are experiencing here in Wales as I write this review.

This is not an album perfect enough to warrant the full five stars. It is, however, an album which more than creditably warrants the four stars I award it. Very highly recommended to all those who love the old symphonic prog, The Flower Kings, Transatlantic, and similar such fare.