SONGS FOR BEATING HEARTS

This celebrated but previously disbanded Swedish prog band from the 2000's has now returned for their 1st album since 2015 (when keyboardist Rikard Sjoblom left to join Big Big Train), and with their original lineup back intact. And they return with a stellar new album that returns to some of their classic prog roots and adds in some more folky influences and a comfortable 70's feel. The centerpiece of the album is the extended 5-part Out in the Open (20 min), which goes through various changes and moods, delivering some emotional and heartfelt sections. My favorite song is the more acoustic and folky In the Autumn, with its rich melodic flow. Torrential Downpour is another highlight, featuring the most heavy and dramatic mood and vocals. For me, the ambitious title track, Beating Hearts is less successful, although the string quartet sound and arrangement is wonderful, the song is burdened with an unappealing melody. These plus the evocative Ecotone sequences all add up to a quite wonderful album overall, and the very welcome return of Beardfish. Best Tracks: In the Autumn, Out in the Open Parts 1-5, Torrential Downpour, Ecotone - Norrsken 1982. Rating: 4

Social review comments

Review related links

• Send comments to BBKron
• Report this review (#3124878)
• Buy BEARDFISH music online with PA partners
• Show all BEARDFISH MP3/Stream
• Go to BEARDFISH page for videos, full discography with ratings, reviews and much more
• Go to Songs for Beating Hearts page for more details, where to buy and ratings/reviews
• Search the Forum for BEARDFISH related discussions