MYSTERIOUS TRAVELER

The wolf is a frequently used motif in the world of music. This uncivilized quadruped appears in both lyrics and album titles, and occasionally, the animal makes its presence known in band names as well. Perhaps the most well-known wolf is the antagonist in Peter's musical fairy tale by the classical composer Prokofiev. However, lesser-known names in progressive rock, such as Aragon, Mangala Vallis, Mystery, and Sophya Baccini's Aradia, also delve into the theme of this powerful creature. Almost unknown is Glorious Wolf, a project by Dutch guitarist/multi-instrumentalist Ruud Dielen. He is a dedicated warrior, and one may wonder whether the wolf here symbolizes Dielen's independence and personal growth.

You might know him from his previous albums. In 2017, the digital release "Aquarius" came out, and two years later, "Zodiac," the first physical Glorious Wolf album, was released. While working with various guest musicians and singers added some depth to his music on "Zodiac," on the newly discussed release "Mysterious Traveler," Dielen digs much deeper?a necessity considering the genres Dielen aspires to. Dielen's heart beats passionately for music from bands like Pink Floyd, Camel, Rush, or Marillion. He also appreciates more psychedelic bands like King Crimson and Gentle Giant, while enjoying the experimental side of artists such as Frank Zappa. Dielen has managed to blend all these influences into a captivating and original collection of seven songs. Oh, and don't forget his boundless virtuosity.

On the album, Dielen plays almost everything himself, except for the drums. Fortunately, we hear a real drum kit played by Kike Paglia, and his lush playing complements Dielen's work perfectly. Driving rhythms, rolling breaks, dynamic cymbal play, and tasteful use of the hi-hat color each track. What happens is quite impressive and certainly not commonplace. Dielen consistently showcases something phenomenal with his guitar, and he is also the best bassist he could wish for. On the keys, he provides fantastic coloring to his steaming soundscapes. Three songs feature vocals, and they are as extraordinary as the music itself.

Firstly, there's Frank van der Borg in the Rush-like opening track Repentance. Initially sounding somewhat distorted, over time, it's mainly his deep voice that leaves an impression. Still, it's impressive how he fills this track. With the instrumental Slow Down, Dielen ventures into jazz-rock territory reminiscent of Jeff Beck. In the following track, The True Story, Dielen, in terms of captivating, goes beyond his own limits. Singer Celia van Onna elevates it to great heights with her angelic voice. The beauty of her voice lies in its touch of dark wave, fitting perfectly with Dielen's guitar playing. The musician takes you on a journey with both his electric and acoustic guitars, and you don't want it to end. The album then presents three instrumental tracks: Howling At The Moon, Mysterious Traveler, and Battlefield. Battlefield, with its angular rhythm and icy keyboard sounds, clearly references the concept of this album: our relationship with Mother Earth. In the captivating closer, Beautifully Broken, the melancholic vocals stand out initially, ultimately giving way to a well-constructed solo that concludes the song and the album.

Now, the crucial question: does the wolf symbolize Ruud Dielen's development as a musician on this album? The answer is apparent. "Mysterious Traveler" is an uncompromising album by a musician who maximally aligns his vision and talent for the greatest possible result. Mission accomplished.

Orginally posted on www.progenrock.com