If there ever was a song that was NOT applicable to this prolific duo’s recent history, it would be Traffic’s “Sometimes, I Feel So Uninspired”! Both Spirergy leader Dave Allen and A Multitude of One mastermind Colin Powell have been busy with a continuous flow of music that scales the highest crests once again. This creative conspiracy kicked off with Riffstone’s debut Richard III only a few months ago and KAPOW! the dynamic duo returns for a sophomore album. Their first foray was an overtly historical concept album on a thoroughly misunderstood monarch , with a lavish booklet that covered an entire life span. It comes therefore as no surprise that these two artists had plenty left over in the tank to consider banging out a more ‘conventional’ prog album and I must state for the record, mission accomplished ! Over the course of nine lush and rich tracks, Sanctuary Sky showcases a dreamier tangent, with mythical themes of introspection, while gazing intently into the wide expanse of the cosmos, a much-valued distraction from the ‘current’ opinion-based mania.
“Spirit of Danu” sets the stage for a galactic ride that relies even more on melodic transference, a powerful space rock opener that settles into a Moody Blues visits Hawkwind vibe that immediately numbs away the daily routine, surging into a more comfortable vein. Danu is a mother goddess that plays a pivotal role in nurturing the ancestral lineage of the Tuatha Dé Danann, a mythological Irish race often mentioned in Celtic folklore. Segueing effortlessly into the airy “Live Your Dreams Away”, an electric charge that provides some exemplary playing from both guitarists, as they criss-cross in harmonic teamwork, the lead vocals are appropriately high pitched, the bass generously carving the low end, while the flamboyant keyboards shimmer along the horizon. The melodic output verges on mesmerizing, searing the title in repeated assaults.
Intricate piano and echoing synthesizer flutters introduce the gentle vocal, as if innocently embarking on a bedtime story, ‘as the night devours the day’, swerving suddenly into a furious maelstrom of colliding rhythms and chords “The Sleeping City” is a pure prog delight, complete with a trilling lead guitar solo. On the second runaround, it’s the tectonic drums that create all the havoc, ‘as the silence turns to music’ and another sonic tornado takes over the fury , as witnessed by a series of rather irate organ blasts. Speaking of pillow talk for children, named after a 14th century Welsh fairy tale poem, “Tylwyth Teg” recalls the rather comical adventures of a character getting lost in the mist while visiting his girlfriend. A haunting universe of changelings, maidens who are forbidden to touch iron, magicians, elves, and other enchanted spirits. The modern arrangement is only sonic, as the chanting vocals, the impeccable choir work, the bewitching guitar spools and unrepentant rhythmic peaks and valleys keep the trance alive.
‘As the stars begin to fade’, a Wakeman-esque piano introduces the bucolic pastoralism of “Through the Veil” drenched in those characteristics that abound in British prog, a playful seriousness that is unmatched anywhere, so deep-rooted is the tradition of that island nation’s culture. The various intertwined guitars and the subtle orchestrations both come close to Celtic pipes at times, while the solemn melancholia of the chanted vocals create a nearly ritualistic experience. The outro increases in ferocity as the mask drops to the ground and reveals the following track, “The Land Beneath the Waves” and its sedate modernistic electronic feel, keeping the audience endlessly engaged, combining familiarity in comfort and experimentation in adventure. The screeching lead guitar is exquisite, respectful of the brewing melancholia and the bass unafraid to add its own two pennies. The reliance of powerful melodic foundation is a trademark attribute of both dedicated artists, individually and hence, collectively, an ideal partnership in musical crime (long may this union thrive!). A sliver of operatic aria is a thrilling jewel to behold.
Hushed voices, popping bass, twirl guitars and choppy drums decorate the charming “Ten Whispers”, massively orchestrated strings adding the necessary symphonics to an attractive melodic suggestion, the lead vocal with a slight Guy Manning/Roger Hodgson tone that made me smile more than once, in complete admiration. The opera singer makes another appearance, raising the roof on another piece of compositional brilliance, a sultry guitar line elevating the joy to divine heights. On my knees, willingly. Stunning.
Can this heavenly trek possibly go on without a hitch ? The answer is a resolute YES! “Wizard of the Hills” suggests so much more than meets the ear, a terrific guitar foray that combines Howe stylistics with Oldfieldian tone, what the hell more can you ask for? Well, how about another monster melody, with a wondrous vocal delivery ! Carefully entertaining, devilishly presented and happily absorbed, this Merlin of a track maintains the impeccable quality of all the tracks on this must have release.
I had just suggested the title track as a perfect addition to the celebrated Progzilla Radio , the Lazland show and “Sanctuary Sky” is most definitely the fitting finale to this off the charts release , available on the 14th of November. Dave and Colin should be definitely considered as most worthy of accolades as prog musicians . Their recent plethora of material has bewildered the prog community with not only prolific amounts of releases but dripping in unending quality and inspiration. I am proud to be one of their devoted fans.
5 Sheltered heavens