Few figures in modern Progressive Rock embody the union between theatricality and introspection quite like Nad Sylvan. Known worldwide as the charismatic vocalist alongside Steve Hackett, Sylvan has long established his own creative dimension — one where melodic sophistication and dramatic nuance coexist in perfect balance. With “Monumentata,” released via InsideOut Music, he reaches a new peak in both songwriting and performance, crafting an album that feels timeless yet vividly current, rich in musical detail and emotional resonance. The album opens with the striking “Secret Lover,” a quintessential slice of refined Progressive Rock. Built on intricate rhythmic shifts and elegant melodic lines, the track showcases Nad’s unmistakable voice — expressive, elastic, and deeply emotive. The arrangement unfolds with precision, moving seamlessly between atmospheric verses and powerful instrumental sections, elevated by a tasteful guitar solo from David Kollar. As an opener, it sets the tone perfectly: ambitious, polished, and unmistakably Sylvan. Introduced as the album’s first single, “That’s Not Me” carries a majestic opening rich in classic Prog grandeur before evolving into a more accessible and melodic structure. There’s a clear nod to the golden era of the 1970s, yet the production and phrasing remain thoroughly contemporary. Sylvan’s vocal phrasing, supported by a dynamic rhythm section and lush keyboards, makes this one of the album’s standout moments — complex yet immediately captivating. With “Monte Carlo Priceless,” the tone becomes more intimate and dreamlike. The acoustic textures and soft dynamics create a reflective mood, gradually building toward an emotionally charged finale. Nad’s voice takes center stage, revealing shades of vulnerability and warmth, while the instrumental arrangement — delicate yet detailed — supports the song’s Cinematic quality. It’s a perfect display of his refined songwriting and sensitivity. “Flowerland” unfolds gracefully over five minutes of pure melodic charm. The track blends song-oriented clarity with subtle Progressive inflections, its delicate vocal lines floating over a soothing arrangement. The guitar solo in the final section adds a touch of melancholy, enhancing the emotional depth of the piece. It’s a tender, immersive moment, balancing sophistication and simplicity with great finesse. The longest track on the record, “Wildfire,” reintroduces a heavier edge, merging forceful riffs with soaring melodic passages. The interplay between the musicians — particularly the rhythm section and layered guitars — is exceptional, evoking the spirit of classic-era Progressive Rock while sounding resolutely fresh. Tempo changes, harmonic detours, and a dramatic vocal performance make this track a journey in itself. Sylvan and his ensemble achieve a perfect equilibrium between complexity and emotional immediacy. Driven by a pulsating groove and rich keyboard textures, “Make Somebody Proud” shines as one of the most rhythmically engaging tracks on the album. The song moves confidently between dynamic instrumental sections and wide, choral vocal arrangements. The interplay of Jonas Reingold on bass duties injects a deep, organic power into the piece. The result is a vibrant, layered composition that celebrates the ensemble’s collective virtuosity without ever losing its melodic core. A true gem, “I’m Stepping Out” evokes the intricate charm of Gentle Giant through its rhythmic interplay and harmonic richness. Nad delivers one of his most expressive performances here — theatrical yet deeply human. The inclusion of a moving violin solo by Joe Deninzon adds a wistful tone that reinforces the song’s introspective essence. It’s both playful and emotional, perfectly bridging the album’s more dynamic and reflective sides. The title-track brings the album to a stunning close. It opens with gentle piano notes and Nad’s soulful voice, gradually expanding into a lush and emotional crescendo. The lyrics, intimate and contemplative, explore themes of time, memory, and artistic legacy — subjects that resonate deeply with Sylvan’s artistic identity. As the song fades, it leaves the listener enveloped in a sense of serene melancholy and fulfillment. It’s a magnificent conclusion to an album of rare coherence and depth. Exclusive to the CD version, “Unkillable” adds a final spark of energy. Compact and melodic, it condenses the essence of the album into a brief yet impactful statement — a fitting coda for an already remarkable work. Having long admired Nad Sylvan’s stellar performances within Steve Hackett’s ensemble, hearing him fully unfold his own creative vision is a rewarding experience. “Monumentata” reveals not only his unique vocal timbre but also the full extent of his compositional intelligence and emotional depth. The lineup is nothing short of stellar — Tony Levin, Marco Minnemann, Lalle Larsson, Randy McStine, Joe Deninzon, and others — yet the album never feels overproduced or excessive. Each musician contributes to the organic flow of a work that celebrates both the symphonic grandeur and the emotional intimacy of Progressive Rock. Balancing classic inspirations with contemporary refinement, “Monumentata” stands as one of Nad Sylvan’s most accomplished and personal statements to date — a sophisticated and heartfelt journey through melody, texture, and human emotion. For enthusiasts of modern Progressive Rock, it’s not just an album to be heard; it’s one to be experienced repeatedly, discovering new nuances with each listen.
Highly recommended — a modern classic in the making.
Tracklist
01. Secret Lover (7:03)
02. That’s Not Me (5:19)
03. Monte Carlo Priceless (5:38)
04. Flowerland (5:09)
05. Wildfire (6:30)
06. Make Somebody Proud (6:01)
07. I’m Stepping Out (5:02)
08. Monumentata (5:13)
09. Unkillable (3:48) *
* CD Bonus Track
Lineup
Nad Sylvan / Lead & Backing Vocals, Keyboards, Electric & Acoustic Guitars, Bass
With:
Lalle Larsson / Synthesizers
Joe Deninzon / Violin
David Kollar / Guitar
Neil Whitford / Guitar
Randy McStine / Guitar
Tony Levin / Bass
Nick Beggs / Bass
Jonas Reingold / Bass
Marco Minnemann / Drums
Felix Lehrmann / Drums
Mirko De Maio / Drums
Sheona Urquhart / Backing Vocals
Jade Ell / Backing Vocals