Moth Vellum is a California based band that released their self-titled debut album in 2007 and most recently was featured at RoSFest 2009. This four member band is comprised of Ryan Downe – Bass/ Vocals, Matt Swindells – Drums/ Vocals, Johannes Luley – Guitars, and Tom Lynham – Keyboards and plays a brand of progressive music that hearkens back to the glory days of 70's prog.
The album features six songs, complete with a reprise, all of which hold to the time honored tradition of progressive music's history of longer more epic tune. Each piece stands well on its own and moves through moods that echo the styles of such bands as Yes and Pink Floyd. Luley's style on guitars is very reminiscent of Steve Howe, yet fresh and creative with it's own sound that lends a meandering beauty to the compositions and a continuity through the whole of the album. Downe's vocals are strong with a tone and clarity comparable to Dennis DeYoung and Jon Anderson.
On a whole I loved the album from end to end with a special love for the tunes Whalehead, with its ethereal lofty beauty, and Salvo, which took me back to the feel and sound of Tales From Topographic Oceans.
Four Froggs for Moth Vellum and I look forward to another album from these talented artists~
You can visit Moth Vellum and purchase their CD at their website at:
http://www.mothvellum.com/index.html
or visit their MySpace at:
http://www.myspace.com/mothvellum
Great review Kris, couldn't agree more, it's a fantastic album - and here's a Facebook group for the guys too.... http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=54431151521&ref=ts.
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