Record Reviews

SOLSTEIN ~ SOLSTEIN IS IT JAZZ? 256 (Barcode: 7073317000073) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 2023 Released: 2023 This is the debut album by the Norwegian / American group SolsteinFind albums by this artist, which is co-led by Norwegian multi-instrumentalist Jacob Holm-LupoFind albums by this artist and American drummer Keith CarlockFind albums by this artist, with Norwegian guitarist Stian LarsenFind albums by this artist and keyboardist Brynjar DamboFind albums by this artist and American keyboardist Bill BresslerFind albums by this artist. A couple of additional players appear on selected tracks. The album presents eight tracks, seven of which were co-composed by the band members and one is a Wayne Shorter composition. The music is a highly melodic amalgam of Fusion and Progressive Rock, combining extended improvisation and keyboards soaked, almost orchestral Prog sound, which works out rather well. All the musicians are obviously highly skilled and the melodies are well rounded and pleasant, which results in a very entertaining aural experience. On the other hand, there is absolutely nothing here that every Fusion and Prog fan has not heard before repeatedly, so beyond appreciating the effort and enjoying the music there are no surprises. Overall, this is a very slick, well played and composed collection of tunes, which every Fusion / Prog fan around the globe can enjoy, but I’d be surprised if anybody finds any innovation or unexpected excitement herein. Having said that, this is definitely a very well-produced album, which can be a lot of fun.

Updated: 13/08/2023Posted: 13/08/2023

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

WHITE WILLOW ~ TERMINAL TWILIGHT LASER`S EDGE 1060 (Barcode: 763232106024) ~ NORWAY ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 2011 Released: 2011 This is the 6th album by Norwegian Prog band White WillowFind albums by this artist, led by guitarist / composer Jacob Holm-LupoFind albums by this artist, who composed all the music and wrote all the lyrics (well, almost), and fronted by female vocalist Sylvia SkjellestadFind albums by this artist. This time it took five years in the making, which of course was worth waiting for, but perhaps is an indication of the deep crisis Prog is experiencing as far as creativity and progress itself is concerned. The band is expanded to a sextet here and with four guest musicians playing on some of the tracks it is a collective work of ten participants. Is some respect stylistically this album is a step back from the Prog-Metal sound of its predecessor, returning to the captivating dark and melancholic sound so characteristic of true Scandinavian Prog. Personally I more than approve of that decision, as the result is stronger and much more impressive than previously. This is complex music, which requires attentive and perhaps repetitive listening, but as usually with this band it is all well worth the effort. It´s good to know that one can still count on some people to create worthwhile music in this crazy world of ours. This is a must to the numerous fans of the band and all connoisseurs of Scandinavian Prog. Wholeheartedly recommended!

CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend