Ancient Vision: Lost At Sea

Long ago, Ancient Vision released two CDs - then disappeared. Perhaps they were lost at sea, but this new album heralds their return. There's a modified lineup, but Keyboardist Tom May is still at the helm.

May wrote a short story, and the album's concept revolves around the story's theme of a bleak look at a future society. The unlikely yarn adds a dimension of complexity and cohesion to the album, though many will prefer to concentrate on the music and skip the story or the lyrics.

Lost At Sea is 1970s inspired symphonic prog enriched by instruments like sax, mandolin, and balalaika - and good songwriting. With their albums engineered by ex-Jethro Tull techie Tim Matyear, Ancient Visions compares itself with 'Tull. In fact, although the overall "vibe" and the "dynamics" of the album may be similar, "King Big Business" is the only song that evokes direct comparisons.

The title track is a standout featuring dueling saxes, deep atmospherics, and a sound reminiscent of Van Der Graaf Generator. There are several pleasing moments including the occasional inserts of female vocals - though Tom Hook's singing might find selective appeal.

A solid attempt that will appeal to fans of progressive concept epics.


Track Listing:
1. Part I - Out of Darkness - Snow Falls Into Winte
2. Part II - Looking for Future Dreams - Searchning for Gold
3. Part II - Looking for Future Dreams - All Dressed Up
4. Part III - The World Now - Pirates in the Streets
5. Part III - The World Now - Lost at Sea
6. Part III - The World Now - King Big Business
7. Part III - The World Now - As the World Turns
8. Part IV - Into the Greyness & Confusion - Final

Added: December 1st 2009
Reviewer: Duncan Glenday
Score:
Related Link: The Band's MySpace Site
Hits: 2398
Language: english

[ Printer Friendly Page ]
[ Send to a Friend ]