Arwen - Illusions (2004)

Arwen's debut MEMORIES OF A DREAM was very impressive, and this follow-up has a similar sound and style, even if it's not quite as good. Again, it's very positive, with the anti-war "No More Tears" one of the highlights, along with "Riding Alone", which has a keyboard sound which actually reminds me of Cyndi Lauper's "All Through The Night". There are two keyboardists in the eight-member ensemble and, again, male and female vocals are exchanged impressively, while the tunes are lilting and alternate between major and minor keys effectively.
Illusions was the final release from this Spanish band, which is a pity, because they developed their own, notable sound, which was put to some winning and charming material.

***1/2