Ciccada from Athens, Greece released their latest album Harvest on April 23, 2021. The band is made up of: Dimi Spela, on vocals; Evangelia Kozoni, on vocals and keys; Evangelia Kozoni, on vocals; Yorgos Mouhos, on 6- and 12-string acoustic guitars, electric guitar, and vocals; Nicolas Nikolopoulos, on flute, clarinet, tenor and baritone saxophones, recorder, piano, electric piano, organ, Mellotron, synthesizers, harpsichord, Clavinet, glockenspiel, and backing vocals; Marietta Tsakmakli, on soprano, alto and baritone saxophones, and backing vocals; Aggelos Malisovas, on fretted and fretless basses; and Yiannis Iliakis, on drums, percussion, and backing vocals.
The music of Ciccada is a mix of rock, jazz, folk and the Western European legacy from the middle-ages to 20th century. It is mainly influenced by bands and artists from the classic `70`s progressive rock era; like Gentle Giant, Gryphon and Renaissance.
All songs were written and arranged by Yorgos Mouhos and Nicolas Nikolopoulos. Harvest was produced by Ciccada; mixed by Yiannis Tountas; and mastered by Yiannis Christodoulatos.
“Eniania”, opens with soft guitar, then cool, soft keys, followed by elegant flutes; like an awakening to spring. Choir-like vocals of male and females singing, “nonsense”. But it sounds so comforting and relaxing. The instrumental section that breaks out in the middle, adds horns and flutes, to bring in a Jethro Tull-like atmosphere, that might even make Ian Anderson, ‘stand up’ and take notice. They add organ and synthesizers to make this opener just about perfect.
“Open Wings”, opens with soft flute and acoustic guitar, with an array of flute-like horns and percussion supporting. This song has a familiar Jethro Tull atmosphere, until female vocals chime in, “Hey sun with your virgin smile, Hey sky and your charming eyes. Hey you, my love”. Welcome to the morning. Just so wonderfully calming and relaxing. The beautiful fireside music Ian Anderson and the boys used to make, only this time with beautiful female vocals. The way it used to be in a simpler, nostalgic time. Close your eyes and think back.
“The Old Man and the Butterfly”, opens with soft acoustic guitars and plenty of woodwinds playing. The electric guitars, and keyboards are elegant. On this song, an old folklore story is sung by mostly male lead.
“No Man’s Land”, opens with a buzzing lead electric guitar, perfect for what would fit the landscape of a World War I, ‘no man’s land’ scene. Then, the thumping drums and almost Heavy Horses – “Acres Wild”, Jethro Tull march. Only this time, it is met with beautiful female voices describing the bleak scene. The musicianship that ensues afterwards is dramatic and full of suspense.
“Who’s to Decide ?”, has a jazzy sound, far different from the sound of the first four album tracks. But the spirit is wonderful, mixed well with delicate female voices and flute work. When the heavy and brooding synthesizers kick in, halfway through the song, it takes a different course. Still very good.
“Queen of Wishes”, starts as a jazzy piece. However, it is a masterful play of epic proportions. The traditional epic closer. At 12:40, it is the album’s longest and most magical song. The mixed gender choir – like vocals are wonderful, as the traditional keyboards and woodwinds play on. Bells and piano are added to the delight of the listener.
This is a wonderful album, reminiscent of the type Jethro Tull and Renaissance were well-known to produce. Beautiful musical paintings of the past, decorated with wonderful soft music. I highly recommend this wonderful trip forward into a glorious future, built from the folklore of the past. Enjoy this trip through nostalgia.
Track List
- Eniania – 7:26
- Open Wings – 5:29
- The Old and the Butterfly – 7:53
- No Man’s Land – 8:41
- Who’s to Decide ? – 4:40
- Queen of Wishes – 12:40
https://ciccadabem.bandcamp.com/album/harvest