:: Review ::
Here we have prog rock EP with the silliest album title I’ve
yet had the pleasure to review. Don’t let the title throw you; there is some
seriously good stuff on this album.
On Anakin Tumnus (who named this?), Gratto gives us three
intricate, dynamic prog rock songs. I was immediately reminded of late 70’s Rush,
and King Crimson. Lots of musical twists and turns here, played by talented
musicians.
The music has an organic feel, a result of the band using
“real” instruments wherever possible. Real organ, real piano, real guitar, real
drums, real bass—you get the idea. There is a harmonic richness and tonal
individuality here that can’t be duplicated with samples and synths. Check out the
organ and piano the album for example. You can hear Gratto’s hands on the piano, the
squeak of the damper and sustain pedals. The decay and sustain on the piano is
sumptuous. Bottom line here is: real players plus real instruments plus real
performances equals a superior album.
Anakin Tumnus is well recorded and mixed. I especially
appreciate being able to clearly hear each of the instruments. As I mentioned
earlier, the album has a late 70’s sound. This applies to both the compositions and
the overall vibe.
The only element here I don’t particularly like is the vocals.
The melodies are good. The lyrics are interesting. It’s the vocal quality and
delivery style I didn’t enjoy. Gratto’s voice has a watery, wavering quality that
put me off. His delivery is light, tentative, and is at odds with the impassioned
performances by the rest of the band.
This is a subjective take on the vocals to be sure. If you’re
a fan of Yes for example, you might really dig the singing. My advice to Gratto is
to turn up vocal delivery a couple notches. Get in there and mix it up. Shout,
scream, and growl. Let your musical passion spill over to your vocals. Vocals for
this kind of music need to deliver the goods, man. Think Geddy Lee on 2112.
Vocal quibbles aside, this is a very good album. It reminds me
why I love progressive music. I’ve listened to Anakin Tumnus many times since
receiving it for review. Each time I listen, I focus my attention on a different
musician. Each time I am impressed. This is an album worthy of your hard earned
dollar. Go get it!
8 out of 10 Keyboards.
Reviewer: Jeffrey Ryan Smoots
Visit the artist website:
http://pmm-music.net/
::
DISCOGRAPHY ::
Anakin Tumnus - 2002
You can purchase this CD AT
http://pmm-music.net/
email Chris Rodler
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