MORE GRAINS OF SAND

3.5 stars. I really enjoy this Swiss band's sound. The passionate vocals, prominant bass and drums, and the electrifying guitar all add up to some high praise from yours truly. This is their second album, and to my ears this band seems to get better with each album. So yes this one isn't as good as "Fears" or "Alone" but it's still a high quality release.

"The First Grain" is a short but powerful intro. "Moonshine On Heights" is one of the best tracks. I like the way themes are repeated along with the guitar and atmosphere. Nick Barrett from PENDRAGON adds some spoken words on the outro. "Birthday Party" opens with piano then kicks in with power before a minute. The guitar is so good here as it cries out. It settles as vocals come in and contrasts continue. "Eagles" builds with vocals. The guitar leads before 4 minutes as drums pound. "Hold Me Tight" features passionate vocals and guitar.

"No Place For Flowers" puts the focus on the vocals and guitar once again. "The Outermost Bounds" is laid back with piano and vocals. "Fly Man" is aggressive early before settling in. "The River In Your Eyes" is mellow early then picks up. I like the chunky bass 4 minutes in and later at 5 1/2 minutes. "Grain Dance" is guitar and keyboard led. Drums late. "The Prisoner's Victory" is my favourite. The contrasts and the emotional guitar just do it for me. "Vienna" opens with guitar as keys and drums join in. Vocals and bass follow. It's fuller after 3 1/2 minutes. It settles and blends into "The Last Grain". The guitar impresses me on this one.

So a good album to be sure but i'd go for "Fears" or "Alone" first.