Karfagen – Solitary Sandpiper Journey

Caerllysi Music

Prolific Ukrainian keyboardist/songwriter has released his third Karfagen album (he has also released numerous albums under either his own name or projects (Hoggwash, Sunchild). He is supported by an array of musicians who provide intelligent embellishment on an array of instruments (including accordion, oboe, basson, bayan and viola). The CD is an enjoyable experience that blends memories of old prog whimsy with current European prog (plenty of Camel and early Roine Stolte) and puts in some subtle folk and jazz touches. There are excellent keyboard sounds old and new, which the guitar (notable performances from Alexandr Pavlov and Roman Gorielov) complements very well on this keyboard-led and predominantly instrumental symphonic oeuvre. In fact my only gripe is the sudden end to 15 minute epic ‘Mystery’!
-DP