Album Page: Bel Canto - Magic Box

Bel Canto's fourth release Magic Box is a mixed affair. With former member Geir Jenssen gone from the group for several years now, his influence on the sound has faded, and Bel Canto continues moving away from the dark synth-heavy soundscapes made while he was a member.

Replacing those elements are influences from folk music and world music in general, generally lighter and more uplifting tunes and they try out at making some certifiable pop tunes here as well; with mixed success.

Adding melodic guitars to some of the tunes sounds invigorating in places, the light melodic touch bringing energy to songs otherwise dominated by keyboards and synths; ... -> show full review