THE CHRONICLES OF FATHER ROBIN – The Songs & Tales of Airoea – Book II – Ocean Traveller

The first installment of the trilogy by the splendid Norwegian prog rock ensemble known as Chronicles of Father Robin was a mind-blowing musical experience in that it captured a richly layered atmosphere with an earthy and folk-ish feel to it that was unlike anything that I had come across before.

With its stunning and oftentimes beautiful melodies and strangely pastoral aura; this sophomore effort of theirs appropriately titled The Songs & Tales of Airoea – Book II is the natural successor and perfect follow-up to the first LP from both a musical and lyrical perspective. The concept remains intact, and the storyline presented on the disc is a continuation of the otherworldly and fantasy-esque theme that was established on the debut offering. The way in which those sublime melodies and evocative riffs merge so seamlessly with Andreas Prestmo’s charismatic and emotive vocals is the stuff that proggy dreams are made of, and the cohesiveness and heartfelt nature of the material make this a most captivating trip to the archaic world that is outlined in the lyrics. There is beauty and grace (‘Over Westwinds’), drama and peril (‘Green Refreshments’ and ‘The Grand Reef’), and plenty of perfectly timed moments of respite and tranquility throughout. And how about that galloping, all-out 70s-prog flavored outro to the ingenious ‘Lady of Waves’?! The production is top-notch too and is as crisp and pristine yet also as warm and vibrant as one could have hoped for.

The Songs & Tales of Airoea – Book II embraces feel, warmth, and emotion, and it is not to be missed.