ELEMENTS: THE ISLAND ANTHOLOGY

This anthology, including almost the best stuff, represents a softer direction here, above all if you consider the album "Floating World", entirely included; and moreover this light atmosphere seldom is more aggressive. Anyway the music themes are always pleasant. By regarding the lack of inspiration during their attempt to change route, you can better appreciate their 1st turning point, rightly represented by "Floating World"; and the 2nd one instead was determined by the enter of Duihig's brother on guitar. Despite of the presence of such pleasant melodies, in between there are surprising powerful riffs, like those ones within the track "Monkey Chant" or Red Lotus". The song "Memories of a Distant Sea" is fine and its melody is captivating too; while "Rainflower" and "Easty" are a Duhig brothers'trademark once more, with a shining personal style and their distinctive guitar sound as well. It's not a masterpiece, but you find memorable songs and a captivating style too, such as that one regarding tracks like "Songs of the Forest or "Arrival of the Emperor...".

A simple but stunning representation of their essential captivating style: it's also very original!!