TALES FROM MOONLIT BAY

4.5 stars. LIKE WENDY's third studio release is such an enjoyable listen, I can't say enough about this recording. This two man band from the Netherlands play a melodic brand of prog with Hackett-like guitars.

The 20 minute opener "Falcon Suite" has a lot of shifts in tempo and mood. The vocalist also changes the tone of his voice to a higher pitch after 8 minutes.There are shades of MARILLION 13 minutes in, and we are treated to uplifting guitar melodies a couple of times in this song. "The Price For Trust" features a catchy guitar melody that stops as the vocals come in, which at times are theatrical in the FISH style.

"A Kings Epitath" opens with a keyboard melody and features some good guitar hooks. At 4 1/2 minutes the song becomes pastoral with acoustic guitar. The song ends with a beautiful extended guitar solo. "Paradise" features heavy drums with vocals and synths that come and go. "Ivory Tower" is mostly vocals with acoustic guitar until the sound increases at four minutes. "Live At Armageddon" is my favourite song here, especially the first two minutes of amazing guitar. "Wreck Of The Dancer" is a great atmospheric tune that builds, and yes another terrific guitar solo.

This is one of the best Neo Prog records i've heard in a while. Many emotional and uplifting moments. Highly recommended.