DISTANT DAYS

The career of guitar-playing multi-instrumentalist Lee Abraham begins in 2003 with the release of his first solo album, "Pictures In The Hall". Two years later, he brings forth another album titled "View From The Bridge". In 2005, Abraham joins the neo-prog band Galahad as a bassist and two years after that, he impresses with his contributions to the magnificent album "Empires Never Last". In the subsequent years, Abraham's focus shifts almost entirely to his solo career, culminating in the release of his fourth album, "Distant Days", in 2014. It was during this phase of his career that everything seemed to be going exceptionally well, with the icing on the cake being his invitation in 2017 to become Galahad's new guitarist. Since then, he has released several wonderful albums with Galahad while continuing his solo work. How are you doing, Mr. Abraham?

Abraham's music showcases a passionate blend of heavy prog, AOR, classic rock and prog metal, characterized by strong melodies, dazzling solos and smooth tempo and mood changes. Particularly on "Distant Days", Abraham demonstrates himself to be an unselfish musician, using the list of guest musicians not only for his own benefit but also to allow them to shine. For example, the fiery opening track, Closing The Door, passionately sung by Dec Burke, features an intense guitar solo by Karl Groom. Despite having the opportunity to create a magnificent moment himself, Abraham lets the Threshold guitarist take this prog metal song to its deserving heights. The album is filled with well-placed cameos like this.

Abraham also exhibits strategic prowess when it comes to vocals, placing the right people in the right places. With names like Marc Atkinson, Steve Thorne, John Young and the aforementioned Dec Burke in his address book, there is no room for disappointment and it doesn't happen. Quality is guaranteed when these gentlemen start singing. With the ballad-like title track, Abraham proves vocally equal to his guests. His warm voice fits beautifully with the melancholic aura of the track. The guitar solo in this song is skillfully performed by Lee Abraham himself. It all comes together splendidly thanks to the well-timed drumming of Gerald Mulligan. His beats are priceless, which is why Abraham has included him in every song. His partner Alistair Begg also gets the opportunity to showcase his full range of instruments, including the Chapman Stick, fretted and fretless bass guitar.

One of the tracks that appeals to me the most is The Flame and I say this knowing that the epic gems of the album are yet to unfold. The Flame is a delightful song sung by John Young (Lifesigns) and features infectious guitar playing by Abraham and John Barry. The song is embellished with extensive harmonies throughout, greatly enhancing its exuberance. Following that, Abraham delivers exactly what the album needs with Misguided, an instrumental piece. The strength of this track lies in its sparkle rather than flashiness, making it a showcase in itself.

And then, the first epic unfolds. Corridors Of Power is a magnificent tour de force that opens with grandeur before Rob Arnold's piano and Marc Atkinson's distinctive voice bring it to a serene state. The song swells more and more, displaying a tingling blend of emo-prog and heavy guitar rock. It begs for more and more is indeed granted. However, before that, you need to savor the captivating eight-minute track Walk Away, which wouldn't have been out of place on his 2017 album "Colours". On "Distant Days", it also serves its purpose as an appetizer for what's to come.

Tomorrow Will Be Yesterday is a blissful prog metal feast that transports you away from the world for fifteen minutes. The Porcupine Tree-like atmosphere takes you through solemn and captivating landscapes where bombast regularly emerges and the keys create a haunting tension. Steve Thorne provides vocals for the track and he does so excellently with his refined expression. It's a beautiful conclusion that ends with an impressive display of rhythmic prog.

Hats off.

Orginally posted on www.progenrock.com