CROWN OF CREATION

Here's an interesting Dutch curiosity with only two reviews this far. EMERALD was founded in the Tilburg Rock Academy in 2002 and their self-produced, independently released sole album Crown of Creation was in fact a graduate project! The leader of the group was keyboardist and vocalist Tom Vanrijkeghem, the recording line-up is finished by two guitarists and the rhythm section. From this starting point one may not expect very much of the album, but hey, it sounds surprisingly good and also pretty original in its eclectic style. Definitely not a clichéd Neo Prog work with the usual Genesis/ Pink Floyd/ Marillion mockery. Especially the pop elements sound refreshingly timeless.

'The Reverse Side of Mosquito's Battle' opens the album powerfully. In one moment I think of KAYAK (the piano is central), the next moment it could be 10cc or some American hard rock act from the late 70's, everything mixed together in a fluent manner. At first you'd think that 'Losing You' was a tender pop ballad with piano and vocals in its centre, but quite soon there's a dynamic prog edge with slightly metallic electric guitar playing. 'Libra Birthday Girl' is a pleasant, melodic song and features a strong Beatlesque element in a Kayak-like soft-prog environment. I like the clean vocals and vocal harmonies (Tom is backed by both guitarists) that go from poppy tenderness comparable to e.g. Chris Rainbow (The Alan Parsons Project) or MOON SAFARI to more powerful expression at ease.

After a four-part suite of 12 minutes (described in an earlier review) comes 'Sara' that stays in the serene ballad mood, with a simple and elegant arrangement focusing on piano and acoustic guitar. 'No Straight Story' is a rather two-faced piece, changing from melancholic mellowness to a muscular hard rock approach I'm not fond of, except for a fine guitar solo. Similar contrasts colour much of the album, which is both its strength and its burden. Occasionally everything turns out a bit too pretentious, losing the focus from the solid song-writing, and I certainly could do with less of the metal ingredients. Nevertheless, I'm willing to rate this charming and brave album favourably. The musicianship and production are very good, and the melodies are really beautiful and sophisticated at their best. If you like the referred bands, there's a lot to enjoy in this 58-minute album.