Majestic, powerful and precise are just a few words to describe the song “You Are the Sunshine,” from Alan Simon’s new album Excalibur IV: The Dark Age of the Dragon. This has been a great year for progressive rock releases, but overlooking The Dark Age of the Dragon verges on criminal.
“You Are the Sunshine” demonstrated the more accessible side of this prog-rock opera beast, but don’t let that deter you. Simon includes touches of Jethro Tull-like flute, mandolin, and electric and acoustic guitars. Combined with swirling keyboards, ethereal vocals and a rock solid back, Alan Simon creates something so captivating that the sophistication of the song is almost overlooked.
Additionally, Jesse Siebenberg and John Helliwell of Supertramp fame contribute their more-than-considerable talents and pop/rock sensibilities to the cast of many, only adding to the fun. “You Are the Sunshine,” a standout moment from Alan Simon’s Excalibur IV: The Dark Age of the Dragon, is sure to send you down an engaging rabbit hole.
- ‘Crowded House: Every Album, Every Song’ by Jon Magidsohn: Books - January 22, 2025
- James Booth and the Return – ‘An American Warlock in Holywood’ (2024) - January 19, 2025
- Oz Noy and Andrew Synowiec – ‘Recreational Substance’ (2024) - January 18, 2025
