WITHER DOWN

Monarch Trail is part of a symphonic tradition close to the subtle and sensitive climates of the first Genesis, rather than the virtuoso and grandiose abundance of Yes or ELP. The predominant keyboards are often reminiscent of those of Tony Banks with a more modern sound of course. The music can thus be compared to that of Willow Grass or Cirrhus Bay in a way.

In this regard, the splendid "Waves of sound" is particularly revealing, with its keyboards introduction worthy of "Fountain of Salmacis" and its final instrumental parts which recall "One for the vine" in "Wind and wutherings ". But we will also find, here and there, other influences, like this piano flirting with jazz for a minute or two at the beginning of "Megalopolitana", before the music takes ever changing directions but always carried by the waves of keyboards. which sometimes serve as a springboard for Kelly Keliriuk's guitar.

Not only does this beautiful music take us on a journey through varied and subtle landscapes and speaks to the depths of our capacity for emotion, but, in addition, Ken takes the time to write us a nice little note when we order the CD on Bandcamp. What more ? This opus diserves 4,5 stars to my mind.