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Flight Recorder - 2026 - "Sirens" (47:56; OOB Records) Having recently reviewed Marcel Singor’s new solo album I now find myself listening to his new project with Robin Van Vliet, with the two musicians/singers/songwriters joined by three guest drummers on one track each (the rest being programmed). Robin is best known for his work with Slagerij Van Kampen, Media, Anouk, Racoon and Secret Combination while Marcel is most known for his work with Kayak, Ayreon, Star One, Bas Bron, and Plan Nine, so both have stellar pedigrees. Musically, this is actually very close indeed to Marcel’s solo album, which is also worth checking out, as there is no doubt that Dan Reed Network is a key influence, along with the poppy elements often used by Todd Rundgren. The result is an album which is very crossover prog in its appeal, almost “prog lite” in places. It is a very easy release to listen to, with the main criticism being the lack of real drumming throughout and a production which has somehow removed much of the soul and depth. One can certainly imagine much of this being released as singles in the Eighties and getting airplay in the States, but if one think of many prog albums as the main course this feels more like an appetiser as once it has finished one still wants more. It is a very pleasant release indeed and one I have enjoyed listening to while never managing to become essential, but if this style of prog/pop crossover is what you are interested in then you will undoubtedly get a great deal from it. Progtector: July 2026 Related Links: Flight Recorder OOB Records