BACK FROM THE BRINK

Since 1969 when I first discovered prog and decide then and there to become an avid collector, I have perfected my passion by becoming a hunter/explorer, constantly on the look out for the next big thrill, often completely neglected by the "market" and its somewhat dollar fuelled dodgy requirements. Every year my goal is to uncover some hidden musical jewel that not only fits my tastes but also proceeds to blow my mind. In late 2021, I landed by chance on Nova Cascade a hitherto unknown entity from the UK, of which I could only identify one member, violinist and guitarist Eric Bouillette, (who I knew from his association with my pal Pat Sanders of Drifting Sun) and the gorgeous cover art of their release " Back from the Brink" helped me take the leap of faith.I have been justly rewarded as this album stands currently in my number 7 spot for 2021 best prog albums!

The are so many qualities to discuss here but perhaps it would be best to place this 38-minute beauty first into the proper musical context. Pastoral, soft symphonic, intricately woven but delicate sounding, sprinkled throughout with lavishly melodic movements, it verges very near to 'Slowdance'-era Anthony Phillips for the instrumental sections, a praiseworthy compliment as that album is considered by many as a top 50 all time prog album. I still see it as the most perfect Sunday morning option, gentle yet inspiring, a perfect companion. The first three instrumental tracks serve as the intoxicating introduction to the spirit that permeates the entire disc. Dave Hilborne weaves dense symphonic tapestries, while Dave Fick lays down some slithering bass motifs, drummer Lorenzo Pollandri adds a light touch to the acoustic, electric guitar musings, throwing in some delirious violin extracts, and a gentle flute adding to the whole.

But the huge surprise arrives with the 4th track, the majestic "Phantom" when the first vocals are introduced and well, my jaw just dropped! Dave Hilborne owns a voice that is closer to whispering and very near Dave Cousins of the Strawbs fame, a celestial addition to the already ethereal symphonics. A fragile, solemn, grandiose and awe- inspiring slice of melancholia. It also gives off the impression that the entire set list has now veered upwards and thus elevated itself to a higher plateau. "Classroom Keys" is a flute-led etude, while "The Hill" offers a slightly murky, nearly electro-Middle East feel, a proggy version of Ultravox' Vienna without the bombast, as Dave's vocal is smoky, misty and brittle. A glittering guitar solo comes ripping through the fog, as the bass pummels the ground below. Magical.

The epic 10 minute + title track is a natural highlight (among all the others), creating a neo-classical paradise, with plucked strings, a soaring and plaintive violin solo, elegant acoustic guitar picking, and backed by keyboard orchestrations. Painstakingly built up for maximum effect (hence the Slowdance allusion earlier) , the heroic melancholia settles into a cinematographic soundscape, just as organic as electronic , before halting on a dime and injecting a more solemn and bucolic feel , relying on mostly acoustic elements that ache with utter beauty. The acoustic guitar solo is noteworthy. What a fine piece of music. Ending on a lovely final note, "Long Winter" (we know what that is in Canada!) is a murmured heavenly ballad that caresses the soul, mellotron waves in the background and a gentle lilt on a melody to literally die for. This sounds like a Strawbs outtake, especially when Dave sings the word "ghosts"!

Fans of heavy metal frenzy will delight in this recording, helping them to properly refresh their frazzled hormones and get ready for the next onslaught. Others who prefer the more romantic side of music will love this too.

4.5 returns from the abyss