The first track is by Sol Invictus, consisting of Tony Wakeford and Gary Parsons. Musically it reminds me sometimes
of what Tony did with Steve Stapleton or with David Mellor. A melancholic and slow piece of music, with a sad atmosphere
but a hopeful strenghth with the ghosts of Keats and Shelley watching by. Then come two tracks by Tony Wakeford and Matt
Howden, with their project Hawthorn. "Degenerate Leander" is an adaptation of a poem by Byron. A beautiful song with
violin, guitar, bass and vocals, in the same vein as their last splendid album "The Murky Brine". "When the Lamp is
Shattered" is more experimental with Tony singing a poem of Shelley. A strong musical piece, solemn with a tiny martial
touch. Matt closes the ep with Sieben, with lyrics inspired by Byron. "Missolonghi Sky" is a fantastic composition amongst
the best tracks Matt wrote as Sieben.
A very interesting and original concept album that is far away from all those WWII inspired albums and compilations. A
rich journey back to the roots of romanticism. PRE started their label career with a strong release. Anyway it couldn't
have been different with such great artists involved, musicians and poets.
Stéphane F.
Contacts :
Spring 2005
www.precordings.com
www.tursa.com
www.matthowden.com