Iona's seventh album brings more of their patented progressive layered instrumentals and ambient respites, both seasoned by uilleann pipes, whistles, and other folk instruments. Unlike previous albums, however, Open Sky's instrumental passages possess more drive and body than before. It wasn't uncommon for such segments to continue vapidly for five or ten minutes before finally fading to an unsatisfying conclusion. Guitarist Dave Bainbridge makes much better use of his talents and available time (73 minutes) as he ...
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Iona's seventh album brings more of their patented progressive layered instrumentals and ambient respites, both seasoned by uilleann pipes, whistles, and other folk instruments. Unlike previous albums, however, Open Sky's instrumental passages possess more drive and body than before. It wasn't uncommon for such segments to continue vapidly for five or ten minutes before finally fading to an unsatisfying conclusion. Guitarist Dave Bainbridge makes much better use of his talents and available time (73 minutes) as he incorporates less of the innocuous and more of the inspired playing, akin to Steve Hackett as heard on The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway and Trick of the Tail. In fact the technique employed by drummer Frank Van Essen resembles that of Genesis drummer Phil Collins from that same period. That's not to infer that Iona has abandoned their ambient and noodling proclivities; they've just found a way of making them more tuneful and relevant. The addition of violin (also played by Van Essen) to their lineup has made a difference in that regard. While Joanne Hogg's voice is prominent on several songs, Iona has always had the visage of an all-instrumental band. Her supple voice radiates from and melts into the music in much the same manner as a woodwind or electric keyboard. It's used more for textured than expressive purposes but is, nevertheless, a key identifying feature of this band. This is probably the most focused and well-conceived effort, thus far, by Iona. ~ Dave Sleger, Rovi
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Add this copy of Open Sky to cart. $4.11, very good condition, Sold by Half Price Books Inc rated 4.0 out of 5 stars, ships from Dallas, TX, UNITED STATES, published 2001 by Forefront.
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Very good. Providing great media since 1972. All used discs are inspected and guaranteed. Cases may show some wear. We ship orders daily and Customer Service is our top priority!
Add this copy of Open Sky to cart. $4.11, fair condition, Sold by Goodwill of Orange County rated 4.0 out of 5 stars, ships from Santa Ana, CA, UNITED STATES, published 2001 by Forefront Records.
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Fair. This item has very light surface scratches that do not affect the use of the disc/s. This is a USED item. Case and cover may or may not have wear or damage. All items unless otherwise noted will include disc, case, and artwork. Codes have been used. Other contents such as booklets may vary, please inquire for details. All items ship Monday-Friday within 2-3 business days.
Add this copy of Open Sky to cart. $4.99, fair condition, Sold by Service First Media rated 4.0 out of 5 stars, ships from Taylorsville, KY, UNITED STATES, published 2001 by Forefront Records.
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Fair. Ex-Library rental. Disc(s) are professionally cleaned and may contain only light scratches that do not effect functionality. Includes disc(s), case, booklet, and back artwork. Disc(s), case, booklet, and back artwork may contain library/security stickers and ink writing. Case and artwork may show some wear. Case may not be an original jewel case. All disc(s) are authentic.