SOMMERABEND

I quite enjoyed Novalis' debut album (Banished Bridge), but they lost me a little on their second album, which felt a little generic and directionless. On Sommerabend, they recalibrate and find a distinctive sound for themselves - a blissful, mellow style of symphonic prog that is much more peaceful and tranquil than prog tends to be. Influences from the likes of early Genesis can still be heard here and there, but if you are looking to rock out you're in the wrong place - follow the example of the lady on the front cover and take in the album on a sunny day, perhaps whilst on a walk through the forest.