Short Reviews [Gandalf's Fist - 2021 - "Decennium"]

I was late to Gandalf’s Fist (one of the fun aspects of living on the other side of the world) but have no doubt that ‘The Clockwork Fable’ is a masterpiece which should belong in everyone’s collection. Their complex progressive music which covers many different styles is a delight and keeps switching into new areas while their lyrics and stories are easily some of the best around. The concept behind ‘Decennium’ is a simple one (hence the use of the Latin title), to release a compilation album on 10/10/21 to celebrate 10 years of Gandalf's Fist albums. Everything on this album has been remastered or remixed and has been put together in a similar manner to a setlist in that they have included their most popular fan favourites while also undertaking some deep dives into back catalogue to please the most hardened. Of course, it also works as an introduction to people like me who have not heard their first five albums (something I really do need to correct at some point). PA describes the band as neo-prog, but I believe they are crossover in the truest sense as they bring in so many elements from neo to symphonic and then back to folk. They have so many influences that in the end they sound like Gandalf’s Fist, no-one else at all, and there is a majestic approach in all they do. There are not many neo bands who say they use a mandolin or mandola in their work, and there is often an acoustic instrument underpinning the song and providing additional depth. There are male and female singers, which again allows the band to provide variety and ensure they have the right approach for each number. It’s always nice to hear Troy Donockley on an album, as although most people these days associate him with Nightwish I will always think of him as being with Iona 30 years ago! This does not feel like a compilation album, but rather a standard release in that there is nothing which seems out of place, which shows they have been at the top of the game throughout their career. For anyone who is wondering what these guys are like then this is an indispensable introduction which is a solid delight from beginning to end.