SHIP

My first encounter with Japanese artist Yuka Funakoshi, composer and keyboarder. She's heading this project since 2009, alongside with some professional session musicians on bass, drums and guitar. Here we are experiencing her fourth album in the meanwhile. Remarkable, this really hit me by surprise. You will explore tricky, predominantly instrumental and heavy weighed rock songs, which are showing a clear prog signature. State of the art when it comes to the production, but also equipped with a recognizable favour for the 1970's spirit of optimism. This especially concerning Yuka's cool organ and piano presence. And nice to hear Sonja Kristina initially participating with her unquestionably distinct voice.

Soon 'The Argo Suite' continues with the thrilling The Ship Argos though, which features a significant contrast due to a bunch of metal guitar riffs contributed by Takashi Miyazawa. That really works quite well, appealing! Atomic Rooster, Colosseum, ELP, this are somewhat evident references when listening to Yuka Funakoshi furthermore. And A Dragon That Never Sleeps sets the focus more on a fusion fundament. Finally the charming Did You Find A Star? even offers some male vocals by Hiroyuki Izuda. Skilled musicians at work here, recommended! Released via Cherry Red Records this is a really fantastic 60 minutes lasting outcome, which impresses me the more I'm listening.