Alive Again: The Breathing Shadow Part IV
[Black Mark/The End]

Nightingale is back with its fourth album, and this time, it is a complete band. Musician/producer extraordinaire, Dan Swano, along with his brother, Tom Nouga, have added bassist, Erik Oskarsson and Memory Garden drummer, Tom Bjorn to make an album that is Nightingale's best yet.

Blending melodic metal with 70's progressive rock, Nightingale remind me overall of a heavy version of Kansas. Although they aren't particularly virtuosic, Nightingale plays exactly what the songs call for. Guitar solos are short, concise, and very effective. Keyboards play a prominent role on Alive Again, and the Swano brothers have composed some very interesting parts utilizing warm, lush tones.

Dan Swano's clean vocals have always been very good, but here he seems much more confident than on past efforts. He doesn't have much personality vocally, but he makes the most of his limited range. At times he reminds me of David Coverdale in his lower range.

As is the standard with most Dan Swano productions, the sound on Alive Again is excellent. Mr.Swano has created an album that is warm and lush, but retains clarity. My only complaint is the drum sound: They are pushed a little too far back in the mix, but it's a minor point.

While the album is great as a whole, some highlights include:
"Recollections" - A short 2-minute introduction that has a very Elton John-ish melody.
"Into The Light" - One of the heavier tracks here, with a sound reminiscent of late 80's Deep Purple, with its ultra-cool overdriven Hammond organ tones.
"State Of Shock" - By far, the heaviest song on Alive Again. With its insistent, pounding riff and wah-wah guitar solo, it's a definite winner.
"The One" - The best example of Dan Swano's melodic gift.

If you're a Dan Swano fan, you won't be disappointed with Alive Again. It is the most cohesive album in Nightingale's oeuvre, and a worthy addition to Dan Swano's legacy.