This is the ninth album by Denmark's Taylor's Universe, led by composer and multi-instrumentalist Robin Taylor and the line-up for Return To Whatever has been revised to now include most members from the 2008 side project, Art Cinema. Taylor has a reputation of being both prolific and diverse with his three principal outlets - Taylor's Universe, Taylor's Free Universe and Art Cinema - all being notably different from each other. Taylor's Universe offer instrumental prog rock that has elements of fusion and has a spontaneity that allows the musicians (notably guitarist Michael Denner and saxophonist Carsten Sindvald) the freedom of expression found in jazz. Denner of course is the veteran Metal guitarist known in the 80's for his work with Mercyful Fate and King Diamond and although his metallic tendencies are rarely in evidence here he does occasionally cut loose, most notably on the mid-section of 'The Atlas Clock' and 'Pink Island' where both he and violinist Pierre Tasone trade electrifying solos.
Whilst very much a collaborative effort Taylor is at the heart of every piece and his Hammond rings loud and clear throughout, being particularly at the forefront on the swirling 'Earth'. Whilst the themes here are varied they do hang together by a common melodic thread that makes the album more accessible than it might otherwise have been. As you would expect the display of musical virtuosity is exquisite and Tasone's contributions in particular are worthy of special praise. If the high quality of their output can be maintained and expanded upon then Taylor's Universe are a concept that will continue to grow and gather more enthusiasts as each successive instalment is released.
Track Listing
1 Mooncake
2 July 6th
3 Haunted Yellow House
4 The Atlas Clock
5 Earth
6 Pink Island
7 Mooncake - reprise
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