TO TOUCH THE SKY

"To Touch The Sky", released in 2021, is the fourth album by Scottish progressive band The Emerald Dawn. A glance at the lineup confirms that nothing has changed in that regard. Guitarist and saxophonist Ally Carter, vocalist, keyboardist and flutist Tree Stewart, bassist David Greenaway and drummer Tom Jackson continue to form the lineup. While their previous album, "Nocturne", delved into the dark forest, on "To Touch The Sky", they embark on a journey towards the light, an interesting trip.

When we consider the album's style, we hear music that is somewhat less dark. It is clear that the production quality is occasionally not up to par in this lighter sound. The adventurous music of the quartet sounds ethereal and muffled at times, while the balance seems lost during the more dynamic moments. The experimental approach to this complex music also doesn't really help. But enough complaining, "To Touch The Sky" deserves a positive analysis.

Fans of this kind of sound can revel in three substantial compositions. The first track, The Awakening, immediately indicates that attentive listening will be required. The Emerald Dawn focuses on finesse and nuances. We hear subtle keyboard touches, delightful flowing bass play, tasteful drumming and dynamic guitar work in an unmistakable style the Emerald Dawn-idiom. Although the band never makes the same album twice, each song showcases certain standard elements. There is always an expansive character with many repetitions and abrupt moments. There is often a thrilling finale and in the case of The Awakening, it is an accentuated swell of the song over which Tree Stewart's wordless vocals somewhat stir the pot. Eventually, a few calm sounds remain.

The subsequent track and I Stood Transfixed, is even better. It is easy to guess that it is a atmospheric affair. Nestled between a Welcome To The Machine (Pink Floyd)-like intro and a closing section featuring an exuberant guitar solo, predominantly serene sounds shape the sonic landscape. The fact that these soundscapes allow for passionate tenor saxophone playing and agile passages on the flute is truly captivating. The Emerald Dawn can be highly imaginative.

The third and final track, The Ascent, is the most beautiful and showcases The Emerald Dawn at their best over 22 minutes. Split into fourteen subtitles, this track has it all. I could dictate what you hear, but you can figure that out for yourself. This is truly a song for exploration.

Allow yourself to be guided by The Emerald Dawn and chances are you will also touch the sky.

Orginally posted on www.progenrock.com