MONARCH TRAIL is probably the finest Canadian exponent of retro-sounding progressive rock music. For the unaware, their new album 'Wither Down' is recently out. And what an impressive offer it is! In fact, this particular item should evoke memories of the days most people have thought were long gone and never to return. Yet the music here is also fresh enough to be unique with abundance of ebbs and flows, intriguing changes. Something that will bring lasting appeal to any fan of the older, epic style. Indeed, CD 'Wither Down' features a majestic progressive rock aesthetics with symphonic pretentios, characterised by gorgeous textures, exquisite melodies full of subtlty and elegance. Rest assured, there are spellbinding keyboards, nice guitar meanderings, close-knit rhythm backdrop, soft and emotive vocals. While you might assume a nostalgic 70's flavor only or just another attempt to copy the familiar trends, this new disk features a special build-up. A sign that this band can stand on its own feet. Sure, credit goes to Ken Baird for the creative songwriting and for guiding the new material to fruition in the studio with so admirable results. The use of vintage keys and piano passages are top-notch by any standards. Moreover, his fine singing complements the instrumental performance. The neat, clever rhythmic job of Chris Lamont and Dino Verginella contributes to lay out the whole canvas for the display of art. This album is a true teamwork in a collaborative sense. Aided by guest guitarists (Kelly Kereliuk and Steve Cochrane), Monarch Trail are providing the musical feast. Now I'd like to name the certain influences. Think of early Genesis along with Barclay James Harvest, and you won’t be too far off the mark. Some other allusions do pop up once in a while, but they are much more vague. The sound is very well balanced, never straying away from the attraction. As result, an utterly absorbing delight in the 70-s spirit. Believe me, from the moment I got this amazing album, I can not bring myself to listen to anything else.. Unreservedly recommended!
