MOTH VELLUM

Moth Vellums debut album is currently getting more play than anything else in my house. It confirms my love of symphonic prog above other sub genres, despite a recent attempt to embrace prog metal. Moth Vellum are hardly the most original band in the history of prog. Their music falls somewhere between 'Going for the One' Yes, and mid period Collins Genesis, with a few Floyd references on the lead guitar front. That said, their strength, purely and simply is in the songs, which are all marvellous.

Ryan Downes 'J.Anderson-esque' vocals, mean that that their Yes influence comes across stronger than their other leanings. Indeed, some of the harmonies are very reminiscent of Yes. At times however, the vocals hint towards a late 80's Geddy Lee and even Sting! The Chorus to 'Whalehead' could have been done by The Police just prior to their 'Synchronicty' era. This is one of my favourite songs on the album; full of strong melodies and changing moods throughout. The crystal clear production allows the atmospherics and dynamics on this album come across beautifully. There's no bad tracks, but I guess 'Whalehead' 'Let the Race begin' and 'Salvo' are probably the strongest pieces, in terms of memorability and fine musical performances from the whole band. There is some wonderfull piano work, great guitar solos and some good dramatic percussion.

Moth Vellum are not going to win any awards for originality, like I said. They are basically just enjoying making good quality symphonic prog rock, and seemingly cramming in as many references to their heroes as they can. Everyone from the 'Happy the Man' to Rush, through Genesis, Yes and Floyd get a nod. This is a sit back and relax album, with an emphasis on lush soundscapes built upon soaring vocals, melodic guitar, classical piano and discreetly spiralling synths. Don't expect to be grabbed by the balls and swung around the room by this work, but do expect to indulge in what is a collection of excellent songs. On that alone, I'm happy to award this album 3.5 stars. In the right mood, and if I were the kind to get so stoned I could hardly stand, I would probably rate it the best album I'd ever heard.....man ;-)