Hidden Lands: Lycksalighetens ö

It should come as no surprise to progressive music fans of another uber quality prog band from Sweden. I know I have harped on this in the past but it is amazing how much that country bursts with musical talent. My latest find is Hidden Lands and their sophomore effort Lycksalighetens ö. The band formed in 2012 and released Violent Silence the same year. In the band are Hannes Ljunghall (keyboards, guitar), Bruno Edling (vocals), Phillip Bastin (bass) and Gustav Nyberg (drums).

The album opens with the one two punch of "Corsican Daydream" and "Dakkar" as both tracks feature fantastic keyboard landscapes, changing rhythms and excellent guitar. The fluidic guitar solos in "Dakkar" are particularly impressive. The band does a tremendous job utilizing gently sweeping soundscapes of keyboards and guitar throughout the album. "In The Wind" is soft and pastoral with melodic vocals and catchy keyboards. Edling has a melodic voice and is an integral part of the band's sound.

The last song is the nineteen plus minute epic title track continuing in a similar vein as the rest of the album. Pastoral soundscapes of swirling keyboards, melodic vocals, noodling synths and lovely piano keys. It probably didn't need to be as long as it is but is a great track nonetheless.

Another 4 star album from a Swedish band clearly on the rise and a very nice addition to Progress Records burgeoning roster of artists. Highly recommended for music fans wanting softer edges in their melodic prog.

Track Listing:
1. Corsican Daydream (12:50)
2. Dakkar (10:39)
3. In The Wind (4:41)
4. Over Again (5:35)
5. Pi (3:14)
6. Hidden Lands (19:10)

Added: November 21st 2014
Reviewer: Jon Neudorf
Score:
Related Link: Label's Official Site
Hits: 2440
Language: english

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