Ellesmere – Stranger Skies (AMS343CD, 2024)
Multi-instrumentalist Roberto Vitelli has just released Stranger Skies, his fourth chapter of the Ellesmere project, a profound continuation of the musical and visual narrative established in the previous release, Wyrd, which graced the airwaves in 2021.
Visually enthralling, Stranger Skies maintains its artistic synergy with the renowned illustrator Rodney Matthews, the visionary behind the marvelous cover painting that vividly portrays two contrasting worlds. One, characterized by a ‘cold’ ambiance, harmonizing with the initial four songs of the album, and the other, exuding a ‘warm’ allure, intricately linked to the two epic closing compositions.
The thematic core of Stranger Skies revolves around the exploration of new, uncharted worlds, a consistent subject across all of Ellesmere’s records. As the album unfolds, it ventures into the world of travel, inviting listeners to discover the unexplored territories woven into the musical fabric.
Musically, the album somewhat builds upon the grandeur of its predecessor, Wyrd. Evolving into a cinematic, partially symphonic progressive rock work, it introduces a notable shift by incorporating a distinguished vocalist, John Wilkinson. His collaboration with Roberto extends beyond instrumentation, as he co-authors the lyrics for the title track, adding depth and resonance to Vitelli’s songwriting.
Drawing inspiration from Genesis’ A Trick of the Tail and Rush’s Moving Pictures, Stranger Skies pays homage to the giants of progressive rock and hard rock, respectively, while carving its unique path.
Now, the stick. While the album features satisfying symphonic progressive rock elements, it doesn’t shy away from venturing into predictable and displeasing prog metal. Why have so many gifted keyboardists when the heavy guitars drown it all? I miss the magic of Wyrd.
As is customary with Ellesmere, the project assembles a stellar lineup of collaborators. Joining the core team of Roberto Vitelli, Mattias Olsson, John Wilkinson, and Giacomo Anselmi are outstanding musicians such as Clive Nolan, Graeme Taylor, Tomas Bodin, John Hackett, David Jackson, Bob Hodges, Stefano Vicarelli, and Riccardo Romano.
Musicians: Roberto Vitelli on bass, keyboards, and main songwriter; Mattias Olsson on drums; John Wilkinson on vocals; Giacomo Anselmi on guitar; Clive Nolan on keyboards; Graeme Taylor on acoustic guitar; Tomas Bodin on keyboards; John Hackett on flute; David Jackson on saxophones and wind instruments; Bob Hodges on keyboards; Stefano Vicarelli on keyboards; and Riccardo Romano on backing vocals, and 12-string acoustic guitar.
Track list:
1.Northwards 6:50
2.Tundra 6:43
3.Crystallized 5:12
4.Arctica 4:16
5.Stranger Skies 12:17
6.Another World 11:43