BACK FROM THE BRINK

A UK act NOVA CASCADE have come back with their latest opus entitled "Back From The Brink" in September 2021, that is full of magical comfortable ambience seasoned with catchy, melodic movements by a variety of instruments as well. Synthesizer-oriented electronic pop signatures accentuate their imaginative sound structure. And some ethnic vibes sometimes slided all around the creation would sound quite exotic for the audience. Such elements can be heard in the very beginning of the departure "Rectify", slowtempo electro-ambience in a soft and smooth manner. In the first part of the following track "The Minutes After" we can enjoy slightly dissonant but delightful synthesizer plays by Hilborne. Such a glamorous texture makes us happy. The combination of acoustic guitar talks and calm, solemn flute whispers should be our pleasure too. The last percussive run encourages us. "There Is Always A Way" and "Phantom" (guess we could consider the two songs a series of events) consists of magnificent, enthusiastic keyboard theatre. Clearly artistic neo-symphonic touches are here.

"Classroom Keys" reminds us of the similarity to some Japanese Symphonic projects featuring keyboards and wind instruments. The shortest one has a pretty long fruity attack and flavour. It sounds like "The Hill" is one of the most complicated tracks in this album. A bit depressive, tragic atmosphere is around it. Crying guitar is also impressive. The titled longest track involves repetitive but kaleidoscopic ready-steady-go phrases featuring delicate acoustic guitar plays, modest flute vibes, based upon the sincere keyboard background. A mixture of Orientality and vivacity on the last run is pretty gorgeous. We would get immersed in the very last sad but beautiful finish. The last "Long Winter" gives us a cool, cheerful aftertaste, despite the fact the tough, challenging winter under the pandemic situation might be long and chilling.

Cannot recommend this album for ambient-music haters but let me say it sounds just like we are breathing in the fresh air, for Neo-Prog (or Crossover) fans, yes.

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