The production of the album is beautifully rich and very festive. The opening number has a festive feel to it, with cascading melodies and multiple layers of instruments that add a lot of depth and harmonic weight to these arrangements.
Since Richie Blackmore and Candice Night joined forces as Blackmore’s Night, they have been almost single-handedly responsible for the newfound mainstream popularity of traditional folk music. The band, however, didn’t only limit their output to interpreting and performing music the way it used to be performed (even paying particularly attention to reproducing the sound and feel of antique instruments), but they set out to adapt their influences to their own sensibility, creating a unique blend of sonic aesthetics that have become more and more consolidating record after record.
The former Deep Purple and Rainbow member seems to have found his right home within this prolific project, now reaching the important milestone of its 10th studio album!
While, the title track introduces the album set list with some truly hypnotic vibes, slightly reminiscent of Balkan folk, following number "Allan Yn N Fan" echo the sounds of Irish / Celtic music with some modern updates, as electric guitar lines add an extra bit of contrast. One of the album's pivotal moment is definitely the band's rendition of Mike Oldfield's classic single, "Moonlight Shadow". Candice Night truly owns the lyrics and set out to make the vocals her own with a stunning and ethereal performance.
One of the most impressive qualities of the album is definitely the sheer variety of the arrangements and the beautiful sonic aesthetics associated with the composition and performance of these songs. The diverse backdrop of instruments as well as Candice Night’s very distinctive vocal performances have been a part of Blackmore’s Nights trademark sound since day one, but the band feels more and more confident in their performances, as if Blackmore & co became more and more aware of their means, as well as of the perks of their unique sound, record after record. On All Our Yesterdays, the kaleidoscopic approach to music of this band is definitely explored as an exciting possibility, whether the group is performing stunning originals or heartfelt cover versions.
The album stands out as an excellent effort, showcasing how Blackmore’s Night seamlessly continues to establish themselves as a unique act with their one-of-a-kind blend of folk songs, antique instrumentation and hints of contemporary rock. 5 Stars from Celtic Radio.
All Our Yesterdays
5.0 Stars!
Track List
1. All Our Yesterdays 2. Allan Yn N Fan 3. Darker Shade of Black 4. Long Long Time 5. Moonlight Shadow 6. I Got You Babe 7. The Other Side 8. Queen's Lament 9. Where Are We Going From Here 10. Will O' the Wisp 11. Earth Wind and Sky 12. Coming Home