VEIL OF GOSSAMER

Dave Bainbridge is a renowned British composer/multi-instrumentalist, leader of the English Prog band Iona.Born in 1959 in Darlington, he found Iona in late-80's, marking them as the first ever recent English band to combine Celtic influences with Progressive Rock.In 2004 he also released his sole personal album ''Veil of Gossamer''.He draw inspiration from the story of a young shepherd during the 7th century, who saw a strange sight in the sky, that indicated the death of celtic saint St. Aidan.The boy eventually became Saint Cuthbert, replacing St. Aidan's loss.The album was mainly recorded at Iona's Open Sky Studio in Lincolnshire and released on Bainbridge's Open Sky label.Several current and former members from his band appear in the album: Joanne Hogg, Troy Donockley, Frank Van Essen, Nick Beggs and Tim Harries along with a few more guests.

Musically ''Veil of Gossamer'' could be actually regarded as another IONA hidden work.And reasonably enough one should ask ''why Bainbridge should come up with another album so similar to IONA?''.First comes the whole concept, which definitely serves Bainbridge's needs to adapt it in a music story.Second, why not releasing such a fantastic work, when the music is so good?''Veil of Gossamer'' is an alternating river of dreamy, Celtic-inspired drops and melodic, emotional and grandiose waters, led by Bainbridge's absolutely efficient guitar play, which can only compared to the touch of ANDY LATIMER.The laid-back movements are colored basically by Joanne Hogg's and Rachel Jones' ethereal vocals and they are supported by smooth acoustic guitars, archaic flutes, melancholic strings and even some nostalgic harp and percussion.Just when the listener tends to relax, Bainbridge will remind him that he is a God-sent talent.He surrounds these beautiful soundscapes with impressive FLOYD-ian guitar solos and more bombastic tunes with melodic moves, often showered by orchestral keyboards, to deliver a rare amalgam of smooth and intense back-to-back pieces.MIKE OLDFIELD is still among the man's main influences.But this time he displays himself as a unique personality, creating an album of unmet cinematic images, sensitive melodies and pastoral, folky movements.

Really great work with a crystalline production and a unique composer that surfaces as one of the best in this particular style.A must-have for all fans of atmospheric Progressive Rock and a fabulous example of how to combine traditional music with Rock.Highly recommended.