STARDUST WE ARE

I remember reading a review of this album somewhere comparing the band to YES. Since, at the time, I was flirting with going back to listening to prog, I bought the CD. I couldn't believe there was a band recording music as complex, melodic, and all over the map as The Flower Kings. Ronnie Stolt and his cronies ape many bands from the past, but their talent as musicians compensates. The album is just plain fun! Since then, I've purchased all the albums and can conclude that this is my favorite. It contains two of my absolute favorite songs by them, "Just This Once" and "Church Of Your Heart". When I heard "Church Of Your Heart" for the first time I had to do a double-take, 'Was that Jon Anderson singing behind the lead singer?'. Of course as we all know, it's the fantastic voice of Mr. Hans Froberg. And man o' man, that pipe organ is fabulous! Then I realized why they are compared to YES. It wasn't because of the music, (you can pick any 70's prog band and they compare), it wasn't the lyrics, (cosmic/trippy as they might be, but not on par with Anderson's), no...it's just so damn JOYOUS! I cannot think of one downright depressing moment out of any song. Be it lyrically based or not, there is a happiness to their music. Is it because they love what they do and are having a good time doing it? Listen for yourself. And for all you fine folks out there who haven't purchased a Flower Kings album and want to start out, this is the one. I would rank it as one of the best symphonic albums of the 90's. Maybe not THE best, but boys and girls you'll want to set aside some quality time, pick up the headphones or blast it thru your car speakers and collect that stardust! A solid 4.5 stars me chippies!