Moongarden's fifth album Songs From the Lighthouse sees the return of Simone Baldini Tosi (singer on the first album Moonsadness from 1994). Fans of Luca Palleschi may not be a fan of the present singer (especially if they aren't familiar with the first album). Though, this may only be an unwillingness to adapt their expectations, and to not constantly think about how Palleschi would have sung on the album. Simone Baldini Tosi has a deep and textured voice, and delivers with a style that at times reminds me of Mariusz Duda (Riverside). However, Simone is uneven at times, while his voice can be extremely emotional and strong, at other times when he tries to get the grit his voice weakens. Yet, he's better than most singers out there and that has to count for something.
Essentially, the band plays progressive, atmospheric, music that travels between rock and metal. The first song, "My Darkside", is a bit similar to something you would hear from Riverside or Porcupine Tree, and it's my favorite track on the album. The songs have a laid back nature to them, and I've found it is best listened to while laying back on a comfortable couch with your eyes shut. Perhaps all albums should be listened to that way.
Emotion is what this band is about, and since it sends me on an emotional journey it works. The lead guitarist, when given a solo spot delivers. Check out "Solaris" to hear his playing. Its not technically flashy, just emotional in that Gilmour style. The band's only real downfall might be that everything from them will seem too familiar to certain people, but I think that their strong compositions will hold out. For example, check out "Flesh" and the mostly-instrumental song that has great atmospheric piano playing, and emotional violin solos. I'm not sure about their lyrics, as none were provided and I couldn't find them on any web sites.
Track listing
1. My Darkside
2. It's you
3. Solaris
4. Emotionaut
5. That Child
6. Flesh
7. Dreamlord
8. Southhampton Railroad
9. Sonya in search of the moon (Part 5)
10. The Lighthouse Song
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