The Gentle Storm – “The Diary” (2015)

Label: Inside Out Music

Review by Tony Cannella

Arjen Anthony Lucassen is never one to stay silent for long. The guy has so much music in him that he has carved out an iconic career for himself. From Ayreon to Star One, Stream of Passion and beyond. Each project is different from the last and he has never repeated himself. His latest musical endeavor finds him paired up with vocalist Anneke van Giersbergen for a band called The Gentle Storm. Their debut is titled “The Diary” and is another masterpiece from this talented Dutch multi-instrumentalist.

“The Diary” comes as a two disc set featuring two different versions the album. The first disc is a more laid-back (or Gentle) version the album whilst the second disc is the Storm version which features heavier more up-tempo renditions of the songs. I personally like the storm disc better but I suppose that’s a matter of opinion. It is an interesting way to release an album and I am sure that fans will find something to enjoy in each style of both discs. Anneke van Giersbergen has never sounded better and the songs paint a broad picture that is quite vivid. Highlights include: “Heart of Amsterdam”, “Shores of India”, “The Storm” and “New Horizons”.

The fact is that the duo of van Giersbergen and Lucassen make an excellent team. The Gentle Storm is a complex musical journey from the very beginning and “The Diary” is the end result. A job well done by all involved.

Rating – 85/100

 

Tracklist

CD 1 & 2 – Gentle & Storm Version

1. Endless Sea
2. Heart Of Amsterdam
3. The Greatest Love
4. Shores Of India
5. Cape Of Storms
6. The Moment
7. The Storm
8. Eyes of Michiel
9. Brightest Light
10. New Horizons
11. Epilogue: The Final Entry

 

Line Up

• Anneke Van Giersbergen – Vocals
• Arjen Anthony Lucassen – Electric and acoustic guitar, acoustic bass guitar, banjo, mandolin, percussion and hammered dulcimer

 

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