CIRCUS OF WIRE DOLLS

If you're not familiar with the crossover prog band Rocking Horse Music Club, Circus of Wire Dolls is an excellent place to start. Few things grab one's attention like an epic double-disc rock opera packed with special guests.

The album is the brainchild of songwriter and producer Brian Coombes, who runs Rocking Horse Studios in New Hampshire, USA. Along with his fellow bandmates (mostly other resident musicians at the studio), Brian invited a long list of guest musicians to bring the many characters of this rock opera to life. These include Amy Birks, Tim Bowness, Caroline Carter (Miss NH 2017), Evelyn Cormier (American Idol), David Cross (King Crimson), Kenwood Dennard (Brand X), Chris Difford (Squeeze), John Hackett, Greg Hawkes (The Cars), Noel McCalla (Mike Rutherford/Manfred Mann), Kate St John (Dream Academy), and Rob Townsend (Steve Hackett).

"On the surface, the record tells the story of a man who creates a miniature circus out of wire, string, and cloth," Brian explains. "But it's really about a man looking back at his life, his work, the people who entered and exited his world, his successes, his failures, his regrets."

At 95 minutes and 22 tracks, Circus of Wire Dolls offers an abundance of music, cutting across multiple genres. Prog influences abound (think Genesis, Rush, Pink Floyd), but there are plenty of other musical styles woven in, making it even "proggier." The album hits a sweet spot for fans of melodic and accessible prog?think more Tommy, The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway, or Jesus Christ Superstar than Operation: Mindcrime by Queensrÿche.

This album is easy on the ears, with no fillers, and it's clear that an incredible amount of care and effort went into its production. It's one of those rare albums best enjoyed as a full journey, from track 1 through track 22. The sound is warm and lush, augmented by orchestral instrumentation and rich backing vocal arrangements. Vintage keyboards, including mellotron, optigan, celeste, and the famous Mrs. Mills and Challen pianos from Abbey Road, contribute to its distinctive sonic palette.

While the list of guest vocalists is impressive, special recognition should go to the band's three resident singers, who do a fantastic job?particularly Justin Cohn in the lead role of PT Wolfe. His falsetto-infused voice is a highlight. A standout track, "0300" (Oh-three hundred, i.e., 3 AM), showcases Justin's vocals and Brian's songwriting. While not the most overtly "proggy" song, it's a memorable centerpiece.

As you'd expect from such an ambitious project, the album artwork is equally striking, featuring the storyline and full lyrics to help listeners follow the characters and who is singing each part.

If you appreciate melodic and accessible crossover prog, Circus of Wire Dolls is a hidden gem that deserves your attention.