A VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS COMPENDIUM

'A Victorian Christmas Compendium' is the sixth album by Graham Dunnington under his musical moniker of LOOKING-GLASS LANTERN. So, what have we got here? This offering contains 10 tracks and each miniature contributes to the general tapestry, producing a specific aura of this mesmerizing release. There's impression of comprising several parts of one longer script which nods us to the old-time Christmases existed in the pre-urban sprawl past (sleigh rides, ice skating on rural rivers, carolers moving from house to house). Excellent idea, even if you never actually experienced that yourself, and even if that's no longer exist in same way anymore (aside from on tree ornaments or in the television specials)... The music grabs from the outset, without loosing sight of a lyrical message. Graham Dunnington unveils his songs rather succinct (nothing extends over nine minutes) but infusing the tunes with great craftsmanship which makes the vintage sound easy to assimilate. Everything is perfectly played in the progressive symphonic rock field with pleasant vocal delivery. Hence, a heady mix featuring poise, precision and subtlety. As a whole, Looking-Glass Lantern have got their message across and do it quite spectacularly. While there is a sheer nostalgic cast to the compositions, you know what you're thinking about - the late Victorian epoch featuring exquisite charm. Definitely, best when heard with headphones, but also plays well during a dinner party or during an early morning with breakfast. I consider, this album can rightly be labelled a Festive season gift.