THOUGHT BECOMES REALITY

On their third release, this retro-modern UK prog folk outfit takes a step back in musical adventurousness but lurches forward in lyrical coherence. On the one hand, "Thought Becomes Reality" offers several largely instrumental numbers and even a song that are traditionally based. While perfectly well played and enjoyable enough in their way, they appear to fall within a comfort zone that might have previously caused these renegades a degree of discomfiture. On the other hand, at least the first three tracks are somewhat adherent to a theme of interstellar travel. They successfully juxtapose the excitement of such an endeavor with the unsavory aspects of colonization and being one of the chosen few to leave a burning wasteland of a planet while being entrusted to avoid repeating past mistakes.

Not surprisingly, and consistent with the previous offerings by CIRCULUS, the album kicks off strongly, with the inspiring "Transmuting Power" both setting the stage for the arduous voyage to come as well as the successful arrival. Tyack's earnest vocals act as both play by play person and color commentator, while the shimmering keyboards complement the acoustic guitar backing. The voices of either the ship's computers or the all too wiling natives of the new world are swollen with helium, which initially detracted for me but subsequently won me over. "Guide our Way" is more reflective but nearly as rewarding, with flute playing its usual pivotal role and Holly- Jane Shears supporting on vocal harmonies. Lofty statements are made but they neither detract nor enhance.

For the rest, the light hearted "Michael's Garden" and the hippy anthem "Within you is the Sun" that cedes the lead reins to Holly-Jane are the most engaging. As I write this, a new album "Birth", their first in 9 long years, is newly available. Perhaps they needed that long to regroup and return with a fresh insight, or they were just struggling to implement the message behind this album's title. Not quite as engaging as their first 2 projects.

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