LOVER'S END

Those who enjoyed Moon Safari's 2008 album Blomljud will easily recognise the band on Lover's End. All the elements of that fine release are still in place; the melodic symphonic prog, the Yes touches and of course the strong emphasis on lush vocal harmonies. Lovers of the darker side of prog can stop reading now.

Lover's End is another fine album from the band where the most important element is a strong melody. Some may find them a bit sugary for their taste and while I like the heavier, darker and more challenging prog bands as much as the next man sometimes easily accessible melodies are just what the doctor ordered. While not straying too far from the formula of Blomljud where Lover's End differs slightly is if it was possible, they seem to be putting an even stronger emphasis on their use of Beach Boys style vocal harmonies. This is sometimes at the expense of instrumental elements, which while present are of secondary importance it would seem. That's not to say it's musically lacking as the lush arrangements of keyboard dominated prog are beautifully executed. They certainly have the chops when required and my only complaint would be that they should make more use of them. A few more moments like A Kid Called Panic or Heartland where they do stretch out a bit more would have been very welcome.

Off putting to some may be the pop elements of some of the melodies, my wife would even like this stuff if she sat down and gave it a chance. There's no denying though the excellence of the vocal work. Only Yes have such a rich melodic vocal touch in prog (that I can think of off the top of my head). Backed by the equally melodic musical flourishes and you have an album as accessible as prog gets that would have appeal to many outside the genre.

Lover's End won't be to everyone's taste here on PA but if you like something on the lighter side, even once in a while then this is a lovely album well worth checking out. While it's not quite the equal of Blomljud, Lover's End is another winner and an album I thoroughly enjoy that requires no effort from the listener. Just sit back and let the rich melodies wash over you.