IGNIS FATUUS

WHITE WILLOW are a talented progressive folk band/project led by guitarist Jacob Lupo.As Lupo himself admits,he recruits the suitable musicians related to what exactly he has in mind.In 1995 WHITE WILLOW made their debut with the ambitious ''Ignis fatuus''.In this work the band combines the classic progressive rock elements (complicated compositions,intense atmosphere,some symphonic arrangements) with Nordic folk and medieval music.Some of the tracks are quite dark yet pastoral,featuring extensive use of violins,flutes,nice classical guitars and generally folk instrumentation,while some others tend more to the progressive rock sound with good electric guitar work and nice mellotron throughout.Strong point of the musicianship are also the ethereal female vocals,however comparisons are hard to provide.Personally I'd say that you should imagine a mix of GRYPHON's folk sound with RENAISSANCE's atmosphere and early-KING CRIMSON's deep musicianship.''Ignis fatuus'' is an excellent release for all fans of folkish progressive rock and lovers of intense medieval music...3.5 stas for this one!