A very promising second album from the band put together by former Mostly Autumn keyboard player Iain Jennings and who also including current MA member Olivia Sparnenn on lead vocals. Whilst there is plenty here to keep prog fans happy there is more than a hint of some delicate pop sensibilities and none of the songs goes on for an unnecessarily long time, Breathing Space seemingly content to trim back the excesses and concentrate on tight arrangements.

Sparnenn possesses a soaring voice and the interplay between herself and Jennings is the main feature of the ten tracks. The guitars, for the most part, being quite understated and used to complement rather than dominate. The title track is a glorious sweeping number that sets the scene for much of what is to follow, being both highly accessible and heartfelt. There is a strong sense of melody to be found here, from the uplifting ‘When I Hold On To You’ to the evocative ballad ‘Don’t Turn A Blind Eye’. The latter in particular is a definite highlight, the band displaying a maturity that suggests they will be around for a long time to come. The insistent, up tempo, ‘Time Tells All The Unknown’ sees Breathing Space rock out a little, Mark Rowan taking the opportunity to make his presence more keenly felt. And, just so you don’t forget that this is a band unashamed of its prog roots, bringing the album full circle is the closing number ‘Turn Of The Tide’, which incorporates a reprise of the lyrical theme from the title track. It all works wonderfully well and this is a band who are clearly capable of making an impact if they can get enough people to take an interest. Another thumbs up goes to the production which is crystal clear throughout.

Most definitely recommended, the album and other band information is available from http://www.breathingspaceband.info/

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Track Listing

Coming Up For Air
When I Hold On To You
On The Blue Horizon
Time Tells All The Unknown
Rain Song
The Senses
Don't Turn A Blind Eye
Head Above The Water
Searching For My Shadow
Turn Of The Tide

Line Up

Iain Jennings - keyboards
Olivia Sparnenn - Vocals
Mark Rowen - Guitars
Paul Teasdale - Bass
Ben Jennings - Keyboards
Barry Cassells - Drums