Amanda Mammana - Back to Life - COMPACT DISCS [CD]

Following their fine recital of song transcriptions (Voice of the Clarinet - Divine Art dda25040) these most talented musicians tackle a wide range of modern music from the post romantic Arnold Bax to the contemporary world of Esa-Pekka Salonen and Salvador Brotons. All of the music is however very approachable and given life and soul in these brilliant performances.

Sylvan concerts have always been something special. The Hamburg-based 'New Art Rock' band has been presenting it's breathtaking music at countless festivals and concerts worldwide since 2000. As with many artists, their concerts have been somewhat rare recently due to the coronavirus pandemic, but they didn't let this unsettle them and made a clear statement and sign of life with their successful studio album 'One To Zero'. On their recent tour Sylvan showed why their fans love them so much a perfect show with an enthusiastic and tight band, a perfect show with lighting effects and visuals that were coordinated down to the last detail and a setlist that really left nothing to be desired. The venue was the Poppodium Boerderij in Zoetermeer in the Netherlands. A venue that is rightly described by many as the 'Prog temple' par excellence. The Inchwho's whoInch of the international scene are literally holding hands here. A full sixteen years have passed since their magnificent last live album 'Leaving Backstage' until Sylvan decided to finally realise another live album. The song selection is a mixture of the best of the band's long history, garnished with songs from the last album, which they had not yet been able to present on tour for the reasons mentioned above - this mixture unfolds a true live spirit and brings a very special touch and power to the music. Sylvan provide irrefutable proof that they are now back on stage in full force.

This 16-year old talent is predicted to be the next new star. With her Kate Bush type synth pop this might be the debut of the year.