JUMPING THE MILESTONE

The first studio album from Flamborough Head in many years and a very welcome addition it is as well. It seems to me there has been no distance in time between albums. We have most of the continuing members returning along with their new member on guitar, Hans Spitzen with Eddie Mulder changing position to bass player.

Every song on this album is quite long giving room to breathe for every band member to showcase their talents. Margriet Boomsma's singing is still strong and vibrant as always along with her flute played with passion and sincerity. Edo Spanninga's keyboard playing drives these songs, even when not in the forefront, he plays in the background that swells quietly allowing the other instruments the spotlight.

The album opens strongly with 'The Garden Shed', reminding me how much I've missed new compositions from this band.' Tomorrow is Another Day' is a real highlight. Quiet moments really compliment this song especially with the fluent flute and crisp classical guitar. Of course this is interspersed with rousing elation and full involvement from all members playing to their fullest ability giving us great hard driving prog at it's best.

The title of 'Start of a Nightmare' would indicate a song of gloom and despair however in terms of music it is quite up tempo. The whole album is a high quality production. Every instrument and sound is crystal clear. The album ends with the title track also being the longest at 12 minutes. This includes beautiful piano soon to be weaving amongst all other instruments that build to an emotional climax befitting the entire album.

I'm hoping we don't have to wait so long for the next instalment. It is clear this band still works well together and produces the highest quality one can hope for.