MESSAGES FROM AFAR: THE WORKING TAPES

Antony Kalugin also releases this companion album at the same time as 'Messages from Afar: Second Nature' which includes unreleased material and alternative versions contained in 'Second Nature'. An interesting flipside to the abovementioned album.

This begins with 'The Gnome of Imagination (Uvertura) which is pure symphonic rock that sounds very like a movie theme. A dramatic and mysterious touch to introduce this collection.

'Hymn of Hope' follows evoking a renaissance sound giving an atmosphere of hope. A glorious gamut of high ambience is the impression this piece brings.

What comes next are shorter alternative tracks from 'Second Nature' being 'Second Nature Intermezzo', 'Bond of Love', 'Agora' and 'Searching for Mr. Kite'. You find my opinion in the full review of 'Second Nature' also provided on this site.

'Faces (First Contact Tapes)' is an epic track lasting a healthy 21.14 minutes. As Antony mentions on the inside cover, this comes from the 'First Contact' sessions of that album. It consists of familiar sections from that album and I have to say there is some outstanding drumming from Konstantin Shepelenko. In a way this takes you on a transient view and memory of 'First Contact'. I would say the shining gem is this track and I am glad that the album provides an avenue to present this version.

'Summer Dream' is the last track which has a sublime, mellow touch which closes this extended perspective of 'Messages from Afar: Second Nature'.

The album may not be a necessity but I believe this is icing on the most moist and rich of cakes. I urge you to buy this CD because bonus tracks exist by extraordinary guitarist Max Velychko.