MOTH VELLUM

This, so far only album from USA symphonic proggers Moth Vellum turned out to be a pleasant surprise. While having one foot firmly in the seventies they add to this a more contemporary sound. The seventies influences are most evident in a resemblance to Yes at times, particular with Johannes Luley's Steve Howe- esque guitar parts. Vocalist and bassist Ryan Downe while not exactly sounding like Jon Anderson shares some of the Yes mans vocal qualities and you could certainly imagine Anderson wrapping his tonsils round this stuff.

The band all play well on the mainly lengthy compositions giving them ample opportunity to stretch out with some enjoyable instrumental work. As well as Luley's guitar playing Tom Lynham and Matt Swindells also turn in fine performances on keyboards and drums respectively and as well as being a fine singer Downe knows his way round his bass fretboard. The music has a mellow vibe much of the time though they do have their more bombastic moments and the subtle vocal melodies really get under the skin after a few plays. Rather than going through each track individually I found listening to the whole album an enjoyable experience but the 13 and a half minute Salvo was particularly enjoyable for some of the strongest vocal melodies and dynamic instrumental workouts.

I'll certainly look forward to the next Moth Vellum album and if you're a fan of Yes I'd certainly recommend checking this one out.