Lantinor: Ensign of Fairies – Book 1

Anytime the word fairies appears in the title of an album you just know it must be progressive rock and the new album by Russian band Lantinor is no different. Ensign of Fairies – Book 1 is definitely progressive.

The band formed in 1992 and I believe have six albums to their credit. The players on the new album are Alexander Kaminsky (guitar, vocals), Alina Bulat (vocal), Anton Telkov (strings, percussion) and Dmitry Miroshnichenko (bass).

For me the highlight throughout the album is Kaminsky's guitar playing on both acoustic and electric. He is an excellent player and is able to achieve success through dramatic solos, delicate phrasing and crunchier riffs. His vocals on the other hand are not near as enjoyable. His voice isn't horrible but it does take some getting used to and I have to admit I am not there yet. The band plays progressive rock with a definite retro vibe often sounding a bit like Yes, especially rhythmically. There is also a folk-like feel here and the mixture of soft passages meshes well with the heavier parts, although the music never ventures anywhere close to metal.

The first track "Ensign of Fairies, part 1: At The Dawn of the World" has a folky beginning with nice guitar and dreamy keys before it gets a little heavier. Excellent guitar throughout and the band exhibit some fine musical change ups showing pretty good chops in the process. In the catchy "The Golden Age" there is a strong Yes-like vibe while "Jerica" showcases complex riff patterns and delicate guitar passages having a decided '70s flair.

Overall this was a bit of a mixed bag. Musically it is quite good but the vocals could use some improvement. I suggest you listen to some samples and go from there.

Track Listing:
1. Ensign of Fairies, part 1: At The Dawn Of The World
2. Ensign Of Fairies, part 2: The Golden Age
3. Jerica
4. Ensign of Fairies, part 3: At The Verge of Epochs
5. Ensign of Fairies, part 4: Thus The Ensign Fell

Added: September 5th 2013
Reviewer: Jon Neudorf
Score:
Related Link: Band's Official Site
Hits: 2416
Language: english

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