Space Revolver

Sweden's The Flower Kings represent the finer elements of progressive rock as they artfully expound upon the early-'70s, much beloved British Canterbury Scene amid dashes of psychedelic rock and to a lesser extent, jazz fusion. With this 2000 release, the musicians continue their forward thinking ways, as they touch upon disparate elements amid complex arrangements and tenacious ensemble work along with the occasional nod to contemporary jazz, thanks to multi-instrumentalist Ulf Wallander's tasty soprano saxophone work. And while the band often takes the listener on a whirlwind tour of memorably melodic themes, impacting rhythms and circuitous discourses, lead vocalist Roine Stolt's authoritative presence and concisely executed vocals only enhance the overall proceedings. Simply stated, Space Revolver is a beautifully recorded opus. One that is brimming with ingenuity and the band's distinctive approach to a genre that often flounders within it's own sense of uncertainty. ~ Glenn Astarita