LIFE CYCLE

An interesting if uncompelling release that is something of a slow-burner. I wouldn't put too much stock in their cited influences because there is little evidence on this album to warrant comparisons with them. They have their own sound which is very mellow, mid-tempo, laid-back Neo/Symphonic Prog. There are many beautiful moments scattered throughout the album especially in the wonderfully restrained use of piano as a central element in the sound. Rob De Jong's lead guitar work is very tasteful and melodic but rarely gets to let loose. Having said that the solo in the closing track is wonderful. The rhythm section do a fine if unremarkable job of holding everything together, but again, it's in the restraint of everything that much of this album's strength lies; the bass sounds like it was recorded in the belly of an empty ship it's so deep and resonant and full. Nothing is showy, bombastic or pyrotechnic except in very brief moments which, by their scarcity, have an increased impact . Instead, the songs are built around strong, gentle melodies that are characterised by melancholy and introspection supported by a highly developed sense of atmosphere in each title. Besselink's work programming the keyboards to accomplish this effect is very noteworthy in this regard with gorgeous string pads elegantly filling the soundstage on each song. His singing takes a little getting used to but once your ears adapt, his voice seems perfectly suited to the compositions.

The production is a bit lumpy and sodden for my ears, sonic wet bread, but it's not awful by any means. Individually, the compositions are engaging enough but it's over the course of the whole album that you grow accustomed to the style, timbre and tenor of the work and slowly but surely The Moody Blues appear from the sonic fog to offer you a touchstone for what you're hearing. Lush and warm with some wonderful moments, Life Cycle isn't going to jump up and bite you on the bum or change anyone's world, but for a Sunday morning as the sun breaks through your window and you want to just lie and reflect in pools of loveliness, then it's certainly worth your attention.