FIREBIRD

This is no major step forward for this Norwegian band. They are still producing some dull Marillion Mark II tracks, which they combine with a severe attraction for Radiohead/Muse oriented music: like during the very good Vulture which is the opener.

Most songs are on the pop and short side. Some melodies are crafted (Symbols) but the languish mood available on their debut EP is also available unfortunately. During these moments, Marillion Mark II is striking back (Swallow, Black Widow and Firebird).

The Muse feeling is back again (but this is a constant with Gazpacho) with the soft rock ballad Orion I & II. The nice instrumental closing the first part is one of the very few available on this album and is quite moving to be honest. This is one of the best songs.

This album includes some very average songs (four in total: you can add Jezebel to the three Marillion Mark II ones), and it doesn't hold a lot of prog elements IMHHO. Some good tracks as well appear like the catchy pop-rock (Prisoner). But there aren't really much here. Do You Know What You Are Saying has a fine guitar break to highlight the mellow mood but can't really save the track.

This album is still better than its predecessor When Earth Lets Go. But this was an easy task. Two stars.