BREATHING SPACE

British keyboardist and composer Iain Jennings belongs among the important figures of Mostly Autumn, being part of their most productive period and popularity's peak.In 2005 Jennings decided to record and release privately his first solo album ''Breathing space''.All musicians particapting in the album were current or future members of the Mostly Autumn line-up: Olivia Sparnenn on vocals, Liam Davison on guitars/bass, Bryan Josh on guitars and Andrew Jennings on drums.

Jenning's first solo output sounds like a less-symphonic and-folk flavored version of MOSTLY AUTUMN, where accesible melodies lead the music to very memorable atmospheres with a nice instrumental background, a bit like PAATOS and PANIC ROOM.And that's because the album contains also lots of electronic loops next to the natural instrumentation.Compositionally the album is varied still very consistent with Jennings offering from synth-drenched instrumental themes and grandiose, melodic rockers to melancholic ballads and modern Electronic soundscapes.The guitars deliver some lovely melodies, not far from CAMEL's recent works, while Sparnenn's vocals are absolutely fantastic, suiting perfectly with the very atmospheric music.A few pop sensibilities are also thrown in for good measure, but basically ''Breathing space'' is a pure Progressive/Art Rock album with a flexible and at moments impressive instrumental depth and a very balanced sound.The last couple of tracks, which are also the longest ones, are excellent examples of Jenning's composing talent, a mix of spacey soundscapes with melodic Symphonic Rock and Electronic Music of high quality with very limited vocals and extended instrumental textures.

A work of full beautiful melodies, different emotions and varied stylistic expressions.A must have for all fans of the accesible side of Progressive Rock.Strongly recommended...3.5 stars.