THE CONTINUATION

'The Continuation' is the second CD from THE WINDMILL. The band succeeds in creating a sound of their own even though there're some similarities; fortunately only on the surface level. The first influence is Camel and the very beginning of the album makes that clear. It develops into a hypnotic groove bearing fine resemblances to Jethro Tull, Genesis and Pink Floyd. A few sumptuous neo-prog components float around. The whole album comprises over 53 min, giving time and scope for thematic developments from beautiful piano passages and flute embellishment to pulsing synthesizer work intertwined by subtle yet powerful guitars. Throughout, the good quality of production allows every element to have enough space to be heard. The lush orchestration is full of contrasts and variety. A chief protagonist Jean Robert Viita succeeds to draw attention by swirly keyboards. There's superb guitar performance from Erik Borgen and Stig Andre Clason, who are sparring off each other in-between different parts of the material. Worthy of note is drummer Sam Arne Noland. He underscores each piece with beats, while Arnfinn Isaksen does a vibrant job on the bass. A mention should also go to Morten Clason (saxophone, flute, singing). Top notch musicianship, great instrumental tones and distinctive vocal performances. If you appreciate a fairy standard progressive rock, then you can find much to enjoy by joining The Windmill's musical voyage... Not to forget the artwork, which is really special - Kirsten K. Viita has done an excellent booklet with images that fit the music inside very well.