Wolfstone, Almost an Island

Although a much younger band, and without quite the same scope, Wolfstone is starting to remind me of Steeleye Span. Steeleye Span has survived by sticking to their essential musical principles while also reflecting change in personnel. Wolfstone is developing similarly, capturing a more personal and reflective tone in 'Almost an Island' than they did in Seven (which, don't get me wrong, was a wonderful album). New members have really accepted the idea that is at the collective heart of Wolfstone while at the same time adding new vibrancy that keeps the band from getting stale.

Both music and lyrics in 'Almost an Island' are engaging and thought provoking, sometimes too much, actually. Many of their references have been obscure in the past, "The Sea King" from 'Year of the Dog' and "The Prophet" from 'The Half Tail' being examples. Songs in 'Almost an Island' seem to exaggerate this habit. While pretty, songs like "Where the Summers Go" and "Jericho," leaves one wondering what happened. Missing is the political bite that we saw in songs like "Close it Down" from 'The Chase' and "Brave Foot Soldiers" from 'Year of the Dog'.

'Almost an Island' is an important album in and of itself. It's all the more important in documenting the growth and development of the musical idea that is Wolfstone.