This latest release by Israeli based project Tuval Cain is one artists that cannot and should not be underscored of conveniently pigeonholed. Tuval Cain, led by musical mastermind (David Lawrence Kuhn) All music, lyrics, and keyboards invites the listener to sift through a multitude of progressive rock sounds, all of which congeal in a tangible yet gorgeous selection of songs — 13 of them in fact. It’s all kicked off by the tasty “Nomad” which if you think about it is the perfect intro piece to start a musical journey from. There’s somewhat of an upbeat, hopeful tone and mood here when one is introduced to this amazing band and Dor Nager’s voice for the first time via this track. Speaking of which contributors include: David Lawrence Kuhn: All music, lyrics, and keyboards, Dor Nagar: Lead vocals, Avi Singolda: Guitars, Ido Maimon: Drums and percussion, Noam Hartman and Adam Ezra: Electric bass, Shaul Barkan: Alto and tenor sax, Udi Perlman: Flute. CD was produced, Arranged, Recorded and Mixed by Noam Hartmann and Avi Chen. Nager’s voice is well suited for this psychedelic, neo-progressive rock catalogue and I have to admit when I saw the pictures of these guys and after listening to this first song — this band was everything I imagined them to be. On “Forging the Future” we hear a bone crushing Progressive Rock anthem reflecting the many tongue and cheek offerings provided by past bands like The Who, Deep Purple, Jethro Tull, Gentle Giant and ELP. This proves to be a very well grounded environment for this collection of these songs like “Spiral Down”, No More Need”, “Power” and Jona’s Doubt.” Despite this Tuval Cain branches off with other tracks like “Wandering I” and my personal favorite “Looking Glass Love” While the UK scene is home to some of the best in Progressive Rock of our time it doesn’t mean bands like Tuval Cain from Israel can’t contribute equally. Granted there’s no rule out there that says a band from this region can’t possess elements of both English Rock — because Tucal Cain most certainly does. My point is along with artists like the ones mentioned above Tuval Cain sound like they are from the UK. Artistic expression should never be held to a strict guideline of musical fundamentalism. I hate to use that word “fundamentalism” here but that’s the way it feels sometime when we try to pigeonhole artists. Also bands like Tuval Cain are sad to say a dying breed as most good bands have been replaced by sonic garbage. I also don’t think “musical fundamentalism” is what Rock n’ Roll is about. Having said this “Forging the Future” is in a league of its own combining the best “UK” old school rock sound I’ve heard in years. Though these guys are Israeli based they sounds like they are all to familiar with the classic UK rock format. The musicianship is off the charts, the songs are amazing and the catalogue is fully loaded. “Forging the Future” is a strong and epic album. It also refuses to fall into the trap of becoming fundamentally pigeonholed or even a slightly duress-ridden repetitive rock album. The musical arrangements really differ from song to song and the vocals and emotional latitude tend to remain compatible with that versatility of the artist. All a constant level throughout. Its music that you could use to watch the clouds go by to — but also music that makes you want to jump up, grab your guitar and form a band of your own. To inspire fans to shut off their minds and dance all night long. Isn’t that what’s Rock n Roll is all about?
Rating: 4/5 Stars
Purchase Link: http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/tuvalcain
By Marcy Moore edited by Markus Druery
Review comments: marktheshark972@gmail.com
