Performed by: Richard Wileman (Classical, Electric and Bass Guitars, Keyboards and Percussion)

with:
Ileesha Bailey (Vocals), Helen Dearnley (Violin, Caron Hansford (Oboe, Cor Anglais), Sarah Higgins (Cello), Zoe King (Flute, Alto and Soprano Saxophones), Rachel Larkins (Viola)

Tracklisting:
i. The Southern Cross (Crux) - The infinite and the unfathomable.
ii. Hydra (The Sea Serpent) - What lies beneath and beyond...
iii. Cassiopeia - Vanity and youth.
iv. Phoenix - New beginnings.
v. Scorpio - Autobiography and self portrait - part nostalgia, part anticipation...
vi. Vela (The Sails) - The random intervention of fate and the struggle to retain control.
vii. Twice Around The Sun - To conclude my tour of the stars. I have returned homeward with a tribute to a musician who has been a constant inspiration for nearly twenty years, Thank You. Mr Hackett!

Constellations is a concept album made up of six parts inspired by space and time.

This is Karda Estra's 4th album, but the first one i have listened too, and i can tell you, i think i have been missing out on something here.

Having listened to 'Constellations', several times now, i can tell you, with each listen this album just gets better and better. The first thing you will notice straight away, is the classical element to the album. In fact, i would say, it is so strong, that sometimes I thought i was listening to a classical album.

The six 'Constellations' on offer here, are inspirational, each 'Constellation' conjures up many emotions within itself, each is beautifully written, the arrangements (strings, wind) are just perfect, the musicianship is superb, full marks to Richard for such wonderful compositions. It's nice to see someone other than Gryphon using the Oboe to great effect.

Richard states that he has been inspired by Steve Hackett for nearly 20 years, and you will here subtle influences throughtout the album. The last track is a tribute to Steve and to be honest fits in perfectly well with the rest of the album.

To conclude all i will say is, buy this album, close your eyes and let this beautiful album of music take you away...

Highly Recommended!

Released by Cyclops. (CYCL130)
Cyclops Records. 33a Tolworth Park Road, Tolworth, Surrey, KT6 7RL
Website: www.gft-cyclops.co.uk

Karda Estra Website: http://www.kardaestra.co.uk/