GEMINI

Lana Lane´s second cover collection album is quite different from the first. While Covers Collection (2002) had several tracks that were not classics and some bands quite obscure, this time she decided to focused almost entirely on classic stuff. The only real surprise is the two Foreigner tracks included here: the hard rocking Long Way From Home and the more progressive Starrider (both from their self titled debut of 1977, the latter certainly one of their best). The remaining tracks were from more obvious choices like Pink Floyd, Moody Blues, Heart. Cream and The Jefferson Airplane.

The best cuts are the Pink Moon Suite (four tracks from Dark Side Of The Moon put together with Heart´s Johnny Moon), on which they do creditable, respectful and convincing versions that work very well with Lane´s vocals. They alone may be well worth the price of the CD alone. Heart´s Dream Of The Archer is another one, where it is clear that Ann Wilson´s vocal delivering is one of Lane´s greatest influences along with Grace Slick´s (White Rabbit is covered too). Actually the only song that didn´t really work is the Moody Blues Nights In White Satin, that somewhat turned out a bit dull and uninspired. Cream´s White Room and Sunshine Of Your Love are a bit out of place here too, but are saved by the excellent instrumental work, specially of the lead guitarist George Lynch (Dokken, Lynch Mob). Lynch certainly is one of the highlights of Gemini, giving it a hard edge where needed.

While I can´t say that this collection is essential, it is still high above mere good. The versions were very well done and the instrumental accompaniment is absolutely gorgeous. Small surprise considering the caliber of the musicians involved. Needless to say, Lane´s vocals are also superb. Maybe, like the first, they should be a little bolder concerning the choice of material, but what to do? This is clearly an album that was done for fun and they did a fine job. Production and sound engineering were like always in the hands of Lane´s husband, Erik Norlander (who also is presenting us with some of the finest keyboards works around these days). And he produced a very organic and crystalline sound.

In the end you get the impression they,if they wish so, could have made a living being a covers band only. Yes, they are THAT good.

Rating: 3,5 stars at least. A fine album to listen to.