Five years after
Art of Complex Simplicity,
Kerrs Pink came back with a revamped lineup and a very strong album, the kind that borders on masterpiece status. Longtime members Jostein Hansen (bass) and Harald Lytomt (guitars) are joined by keyboardist Freddy Ruud (who had stepped in just in time for the previous record), keyboardist Lasse Johansen, drummer Knut R. Lie, and lead singer Lasse Tanderø. The latter shares vocal duties with two female singers, Tracee Meyn and Lillian Høidal. Three of the seven pieces have been penned by Ruud. They take liberties with prog rock rules, introducing variety -- like a blues-rock episode in "Moments in Life" -- and more accessible melodies. Three are the work of Lytomt and Hansen. They draw on Scandinavian folk and symphonic progressive rock to build up superb momentum and exquisite beauty. The reason why
Tidings works so well resides in the balance struck between the two teams of songwriters. Solid execution, excellent production, and special care in the arrangements wrap up the gift with all the extras. These songs sound like they have been carefully polished without taking off their vitality. "Tidings From Some Distant Shore" and "Yumi Yeda" hit artistic peaks, but each track has its lovable features. Fans of
Peter Gabriel-era
Genesis and
Flower Kings should definitely check out this album, one of the best "classic" prog rock opuses released in 2002. ~ François Couture