KEYHOLDER

Every now and then I'm reading bad comments about Lundström's vocals. I've got to say I don't have problems with it, as well not really with the admittedly a bit too "sweet" ones of guest singer Aleena. Somehow everything fits together after several listenings. And anyway I predominantly concentrate on the music and this is just excellent retro prog at its best. The first three songs are just awesome, "Sonic Pearls" and "Across the Big Uncertain" are a bit weaker ones, but quite okay as well. The longest track "Endless Rope" I find very great as well. "Distant Voices" has an incredibly close YES-feeling, for me just great , I love this band, and since there's is not that much great new material coming anymore from them, it's just fine for me if there is such a good substitute like KAIPA. Of course since two TFK-members are involved, it's not surprising that the style is very much similar to theirs, but still it sounds different from any TFK-album, the closest being probably "Retropolis", no wonder since its compositions origin from KAIPA's 70's era. As a summary I'd like to say that anyone who liked "Notes From The Past" will love this one, as well any retro prog-fan. If you look for innovative and adventurous you should stay away from it. For me it's a 4-stars-album!