 |
 |
|
| The Flower Kings - The Rainmaker |
 Released: 2001 Label: Inside Out America Cat. No.: Total Time: 77:05 | |
Reviewed by: Keith "Muzikman" Hannaleck, September 2001 The Flower Kings are positioning themselves to be one of the most significant and popular groups with The Rainmaker, their latest release on the flourishing Inside Out America label. I was very impressed with their previous release Space Revolver, but this one is definitely kicked up a few notches in every aspect. "Last Minute On Earth" is the opener. It's a magnificent opus cranking out over eleven minutes of philosophic (futuristic?) progressive rock tainted with a hint of cynicism. Mesmerizing keyboards invite Hasse Froberg's voice into the fold, and from that point forward he takes the reins and never lets go. His voice seems to continually evolve and mature along with the group's sound as the album progresses. He makes a stand as the lead vocalist by answering the call of the music every step of the way. This factor will have an enormous effect on what you will hear with each album the group records in the future. "Sword Of God" is an authoritative rocker. Froberg's vocals reminded me of Ian Gillian's vocal style with Deep Purple at the height of their success in the seventies. Roine Stolt's guitar takes total control and they instantly become electrifying, rockin' melodic classic rockers with a sound that emanates from their forefathers Yes, ELP, and Pink Floyd. While listening to "World Without Heart" and "Road To Sanctuary" it made me realize how much they were influenced by groups like Pink Floyd and Marillion. Those particular groups always maintained their hard rock progressive edge while combining insightful lyrics with strong melodies. "City Of Angels" is a classic rendering of prog-rock with a glistening polished pop sound around the edges. It's a distinctly radio friendly hit that may make it to many play lists quickly. The production, sound and clarity is outstanding on this disc, making their recorded output that much more prolific. With their versatility and across-the-board talent, the Flower Kings will surely remain atop the heap as one the reigning kings of progressive rock. Their reach has spread far and wide outside of their homeland borders of Sweden. They are currently on tour letting everyone know just how essential and astonishing their music is. You don't have to be a prog head to enjoy this music, if you love great rock and roll you need to hear this CD. Yes indeed, they are serious dreamers... [Read also Bobo's, Clayton's, Steph's, Eric's, and Marcelo's reviews (whew!) -ed.] More about The Rainmaker: Track Listing: Last Minute On Earth (11:40) / World Without A Heart (4:29) / Road To Sanctuary (13:50) / The Rainmaker (6:02) / City Of Angels (12:04) / Elaine (4:55) / Thru The Walls (4:31) / Sword Of God (6:00) / Blessing Of A Smile (3:12) / Red Alert (1:10) / Serious Dreamers (8:59) Musicians: Contact: Website: www.flowerkings.se Discography
| |
 [Review Index] [Home] [Top]  © Copyright 2001 ProgressiveWorld.net/Keith Hannaleck |