Thursday, August 6, 2015

CD REVIEW: THE UNQUIET SKY by Arena




THE UNQUIET SKY by Arena
( Verglas Music)


UK Progrockers, Arena return with their latest release, 'The Unquiet Sky', based on the short story by Mr. James called "Casting the Runes". Formed in 1995 by Clive Nolan keyboardist of Pendragon and Shadowland, and Mick Pointer, the original drummer of Marillion, his tenure lasting from 1979 until 1983. The current band is made up of, Paul Manzi – Vocals, John Mitchell – Guitars, Kylan Amos – Bass, Mick Pointer – Drums and Clive Nolan – Keyboards. The overall vibe of, 'The Unquiet Sky' is seductive, musically and especially lyrically; the songs compels exploration. The sonic surfaces are stylishly sad, but it's infectious at the same time. All the songs flow together so that they sound like one continuous piece of music. The moods range from gentle introspection to aggressive defiance. Paul Manzi passionately sings lyrics that are often cryptic but allow the listener to conjure up his/her own individual interpretation or images of what each song is about. On songs like, "How Did It Come To This?", " No Chance Encounter" and "What Happened Before" are more straight forward lyrically, dealing with more obvious themes. And the band adds beautifully to Manzi's words, creating a variable and always appropriate musical ambience. You simply have to listen to all songs on this album in order in their entirety to get the full magnitude of Arena's work. Put on the headphones, turn down the lights, have a glass of wine and let this album take you on a emotional journey. Every song is unique. Every song is majestically performed. Every song contributes to the magnificence of this recording. - Highly Recommended
Tony @ The Dedicated Rocker Society



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