LOVER'S END PT. III: SKELLEFTEÅ SERENADE

I'm swept away by a river of sparkling, cheese-filled childhood nostalgia with this epic from Moon Safari. Yes, I said it, sparkling, cheesy nostalgia. If you don't feel like a love struck little girl after listening to this track, you're in denial. This ability is this band's greatest strength, and I mean that in the very best way. In a band where all 6 members can and do sing together, would you expect anything else?

The performances from start to finish are as fine as you would ever hope to hear on any symphonic prog record. High-flying and even virtuosic sounding solos sprinkled throughout always remain satisfying after multiple listens. The characteristically rich vocal harmonies are well mixed, taking center stage as they should be. I admittedly find myself compelled to sing along during several key moments where cheesy lyrics meet a powerful melody and progression. Odd time signatures are used sparingly throughout, but when they are used they are not abused, generally lasting only a few bars before returning to a 3 or 4 feel. This serves the band tremendously on this epic emotive track.

If approached as what it is, there is nothing here not to love. This time the glitter and cheese wins. Lover's End Pt. III is essential: a masterpiece of modern symphonic prog.