VEIL OF GOSSAMER

Let's continue the five star applause and wholeheartedly agree with my fellow reviewers ! This is AMAZING! Dave Bainbridge 's solo album is way more progressive and boundary- stretching than is usual main gig with Iona. Firstly, this is a more of a musician recording a personal adventure , where the focus is really on his multiple talents on a vast variety of instruments, like Oldfield did back when. This opus has solid structure with interludes, Celtic swoons, extended workouts, well thought out creative arrangements and of course, some sizzling guitar playing , evoking hints of Holdsworth, Latimer, Hackett and Howe but really a unique style that deserves the highest praise. The epic pieces are particularly impressive , each having their own special cachet and providing some memorable moments that verge on the best prog in recent memory. While more esoteric and personal than Iona, Clannad, Mostly Autumn , Karnataka and the other Celtic-prog purveyors, the music is in fact more muscular with some terrific drumming, intense reptilian bass , sumptuous synth tapestries and some simply astounding vocals. My favourite track remains the punchy "The Homeward Race" , a dizzying piece that confirms this CD as an absolute must. The closing suite , "Star Filled Skies" puts another exclamation mark on the merits of the five star rating.

What a truly captivating and highly enjoyable adventure! Definitely a classic that I will cherish for many years to come.

5 ionas