CLOCKWORKED EARTH

Vocals were always a very weak points in the previous releases of this Japanese band. Don't be confused : even if all their titles are in English, all are sung in Japanese. But in this respect, I have to say that Megumi Tokuhisa in doing a better job here. She does not sound so much to a fifteen years-old little girl any longer. Of course, she is ageing since the first "Teru's" album (recorded eight years prior to this one).

Instrumental passages or songs ("Stand By The Edge Of Memories") are still the best moments but during "Mother To Mother", her voice is more than acceptable (she does remind me of Lene Lovitch). It features a very nice melody and is to be ranked in the smooth part of their repertoire (just as "Pandora's Progeny" which is more complex and also holds some rockier bits and bytes).

"Animal Life" is one of my favourite song from this recording. Lush keyboards and solid beat. A good introduction to the excellent "Quiet Life". One of their best song ever released IMHHO. The band did not produce anything really great since "Symphonia 1" featured on their debut album. In a way, it also reminds some sort of symphonical work. Very catchy vocals (when it is pleasant, it also needs to be mentioned), like during "Animal Life" the melody is enjoyable and the guitar work is very well performed as well. THE highlight.

This album is finally truely symphonic (it's about time!). Most of the tracks offering very melodic work. The closing number is another good example. "Divine Drops" is definitely an interesting number as well.

It is on par with their debut which I had rated with three stars. Same for this one and a good entry to their repertoire.