I rated their 2010 album Listen quite highly, even if it did contain numerous mis-steps in its 60 minute running time. Just give us your best songs with no messing about was my online advice to Emanuel and the gang. Either other people had told them the same thing or they take my comments very seriously (as of course everybody should). So here it is: The Janus Mirror, 8 songs and less than 40 minutes.
The band has shrunk from an unfeasible 11-piece to a more realistic 6-piece. Given the small stages they still find themselves playing this must be an improvement in safety too. Although the sound they make on this recording is as big as ever with strings striving to be heard with the framework of some well-recording searing guitar riffs, thumping bass patterns and snappy drumming. Making a big noise is hardly a unique talent, but Emanuel Ayvas backs it up (once again) with some very solid tunes, lyrics and arranging as the sound veers between Jethro Tull, The Beatles, ELO and Broken Social Scene.
My Rating: 8/10
Baroque poppy? Just a little.
