WINTER'S MOURNING

Tis the season for schmaltzy sentiment. All too many bands after the quick cash grab and a slice of immortal fame amidst the festive disco compilation mixtapes. That's not the Prog I signed up for. If you want that go and listen to Cliff Richard and people with shiny hats.

So, you can imagine my eternal joy to find that the wintery single from Gandalf's Fist dispenses with tidings of comfort and joy and rather delves us into a world of ghosts, vagabonds and mysterious forests. The song itself is melancholic and reminds me of folk tales of old. Fans of Gryphon's "Unquiet Grave" will be at place here, with a familiar feel, all be it with a switch of roles and a bit of a twist in the narrative at the end.

I love songs that tell a story and this one is no exception. As usual the musician-ship is top notch, even more so, their new lineup sounds fresh and bright and the keys and vocals shimmer and shine. It's also worth mentioning the guitar solo, that instantly reminded me of something you would find on Wishbone's "Argus" ? fantastic.

If you're sick of the usual this year, and you've worn out Tull's "Fire's at Midnight" then you won't go far wrong with this. The perfect song to sip a single malt to in front of a raging fire whilst the trees bend to the wind outside.