Iamthemorning - 'Lighthouse'

An ethereal and darkly emotive style of Prog Rock, infused with delicate musical passages that are aligned with shadowy hues and poignant lyrics.

Russian Prog act Iamthemorning was formed in 2010 in St. Petersburg and now return with their sophomore release 'Lighthouse'. Built around the wonderful talents of composer and Classically-trained pianist Gleb Kolyadin and singer Marjana Semkina, Iamthemorning play an ethereal and darkly emotive style of Prog Rock, infused with delicate musical passages that are aligned with shadowy hues and poignant lyrics. And this combination will take you, as it did me, many listens to understand. Take the time needed, however, to find this understanding and you'll find yourself in a landscape full of dramatic musicality not found on your usual Prog release.



The main instrumentation on the album is Kolyadidn's grand piano, which was recorded at Mosfilm Studios Moscow, the largest and oldest studio in Russia, and it is the way Kolyadin weaves his piano lines in and out of the songs that gives the music found on 'Lighthouse' its melodramatic feel. Personally, however, I feel what really breathes life into the Iamthemorning songs are the enigmatic vocals of Semkina. Listen to 'Too Many Years', 'Clear, Clearer' or the absorbing Gothic 'Libretto Horror' and marvel at how easily this young lady, with her otherworldly voice, draws you into the world of Iamthemorning. Personal favourites of mine include the melodramatic title track (featuring Marius Duda of Riverside), the Kate Bush-like 'Matches', 'Chalk And Coal', the wispy as a spring morning 'Belighted', and the stunningly beautiful 'I Came Before The Water II'.

Summing up, I would have to say that if you like your music full of guitars and "in your face" riffs, then suffice to say Iamthemorning won't be what you are looking for. If, however, you like listening to music that is a little bit different from the norm, a little bit lighter in texture but with a real depth running through it, then I can heartily recommend the 'Lighthouse' album to you.

Ian Johnson