Green Carnation

The Burden Is Mine... Alone (EP)
Profound Lore Records

9/10: Mellow acoustic avante/garde

4 Tracks; 16:08

It really shouldn't come as a surprise anymore that Green Carnation consistently outdoes themselves in pushing the boundaries they set on previous releases. The Burden Is Mine… Alone proves that once again - so much so that I would rate it their best work since the epic Light of Day album. Although this latest release is simply an acoustic four-song EP, it undeniably packs a solid punch. The stripped-down mellower approach strays from the rock tones showcased on the last couple of albums, with the music here being simultaneously poignant and quietly upbeat. The clean acoustic guitar tones sound fantastic, complimented by unobtrusive drums and soft keyboard soundscapes. Kjetil Nordhus has jumped at the chance to show off the incredible range and depth of his vocals. Upon first listen, I honestly wondered when Green Carnation had recruited a new singer - who would have thought that this heartbreakingly crystalline voice belonged to the very same person!

My only crib with the album is the last track, Six Ribbons, as it doesn't really mesh well with the other tracks. Think of medieval times - a strolling minstrel singing about his lost love. Upon further investigation, I found that it was actually written by Jon English (an Australian musician/actor) - an odd choice, and it left me a tad confused towards the end. However, it was a treat to read that the first two tracks, The Burden Is Mine… Alone and Sweet Leaf are scheduled to be included on the band's next full-length. If they are any indication of what the new material will sound like, I can guarantee that older fans will want to pick up a copy. Clocking in at a grand total of 16:13 minutes, this is one disc that will definitely leave you salivating for more!

Tina Sequeira