WINTERSERENADE

Kolibri´s second album is a much bolder and interesting work than their debut, albeit less melodic. First of all there are no vocals, it´s an all instrumental record where there is more originality and, yes, it´s more progressive. Both main soloists Ingo Höricht (guitar, violin) and Hans Kumfert (bass, classical guitar, transverse flute) plus new member Torsten Ribbe (transverse flute) are much more creative and the most important new element in their musical pot is a jazzier sound (they even included the classic Dave Brubeck song Take Five on this LP). Everything here is totally acoustic except for the bass parts. There is very little percussion to spice up a bit some parts of a few tracks.

The best tune is the last one, Yedigün, more classical oriented and melodic, and still very original, with several tempo and mood changes. Nothing to write home about it, of course, but it is a valid statement and a pleasant listening all along. It is only a shame they did not explore their obvious talents a little more. With a wider instrumentation they would probably make a bigger impact on the prog scene (like having some keyboards and a rhythm section, but I´m just guessing). Anyway, an interesting and well made album that should please anyone who enjoys good instrumental prog folk.

Rating: 3,5 stars.