CORVUS STONE UNSCREWED

Corvus Stone has done it once again, something new and unpredictable. Maybe not all new but new versions of some old fan favs. Unpredictable is what best describes Colin Tench and his merry co-horts, Pasi Koivu (Keys), Petri Lindstrom (Bass), Robert Wolf (Drums) as the nucleus of the band. Blake carpenter (The Minstrel's Ghost),Sean Filkens (Big Big Train), Phil Naro (Druckfarben) and Steff Flaming (Murky Red) lend vocals ,guitars and keys to this collection of new and reworked songs. The interesting thing about this band is the Unyielding cohesion they bring to the table. It seems to me, at least, the group as a whole works so well together including the guest artists that appear that they are unstoppable as a music project. This is, I believe is relatively rare today as egos get in the way and subpar recordings are made. This happens way too often and the listener is the one who pays for it. So now on with my thoughts...

Keeping things short and to the point we start with Brand New Day a a prog rock instrumental that has you flying,close your eyes and listen you will see and feel. The video release for this track is just what the dr ordered. Early Morning calls, which was Early Morning call on CS2 was an instrumental has been transformed into possibly the best track on the cd. A total re-do of this track has dual vocals by Filkins and Naro and what a combo this is to hear. Incredible harmony with these guys, guitar is new and cleaner imo.I love the original as I do all instrumentals but this track is very very good!! This should not be considered a re-work at all it is a brand new song!! Next up we have another very unusual title which CS is or should be known for at this point. Joukahainen Without Chips is a sad song. Slow and methodical it winds its way to a point when drums come along and becomes sort of a crescendo before it dies. Moving on we have Horizon another re-mix, it is a foot tapper to say the least with all kinds of "noises" in the background. Keys on this track are outstanding. Crisper and cleaner then original. Landfill is a quiet little track very clear and crisp at the start but then "bang" till it settles back into a little quite number. Again Corvus Stone "noises" are very much part of this. Drumming is subtle but positioned at perfect locations of the track. After Solstice another revamped track, just simply put ROCKS!! This would be a great song to perform LIVE!! JussiPussi is just a silly song, lots of strange noises and sounds. I often wondered what these guys were doing when it was recorded. It's a mashup of everything in the kitchen sink. Think Frank Zappa on ten times the amount of acid Timothy Leary took. Scary Movie Too is advertised as a longer version of the original. And if it is, it is in the mixing of the track that blindfolds me or earplugs me(?). I hear pieces of original but not at same places. This could be called a new song IMO. Petrified in the Cinema Basement is a very laidback track. Push back your recliner put on the headphones and just enjoy. Lost and found is an extended version of the original with Blake Carpenter putting his chords to task. He makes the track, his voice is so under-appreciated or under-used, maybe I should say, in the world of prog.I dont know how these guys do it but they put Blake in the best tracks that suit his style. I suppose that is how professionals work!! Cinema Finale, A rework of the original and very 1st Corvus Stone track i heard. It remains to this day as my favorite. I can't say anything more about this track other than to listen. It takes me away and places me where all is good. On a personal Note this is my go to track when i just want to be left alone and think. I set ipod to repeat and I'm good. Pack up Your Truffles is another very cool and relaxed feel just sit back enjoy this sweet little tune. MiM is a remix cleaner then the OEM. After listening to this I went back and revisited the originals. Now I keep CS on a 2 week turnaround for playing so I am familiar just a tad. I found the remixes to all be much cleaner the before as the earlier ones sounded "muddy" with the comparison. I do not know if that is proper terminology or not. The new tracks are very good tracks and even though Cinema has been and probably always be my favorite track I think Early Morning calls is the best of the cd. I appreciate the longer Lost and Found showcasing Blake's vocals very much. All in all considering this is a collection of remixes with few new tracks I would have to say that it is a must have for all fans of progressive rock. Not that Corvus Stone can be confined to that one genre. I say kudos to all involved with this faction known as Corvus Stone!! One last bit for those who have not yet heard or maybe did not appreciate the early releases I think it is time for a visit back and listen again. This will set your path in the proper direction.

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