Fires at Midnight

One of hard rock's most influential guitarists has opted for the cultural upheaval and regality of the Renaissance era, as Ritchie Blackmore and vocalist Candice Night spearhead a band who abides by a hearty cross-pollination of English folk, 16th century melodies, and progressive rock. Here, Blackmore injects tasteful electric lead lines into a mix consisting of buoyantly executed rhythmic structures and Ms. Knight's whispery, and at times, satiny vocalizations. Thus, Blackmore's Night proclaims a festive atmosphere throughout these 16 pieces, while the band's charming rendition of Bob Dylan's "The Times They Are a Changin'" might represent the lone deviation from the grand scheme of things to coincide with this ensemble's altogether cheery demeanor and novel approach. Moreover, for those expecting to hear Blackmore ravage his electric with his now-infamous high-octane, blues-drenched power chords and doomsday chops, forget it. With this release, subtly, finesse, and nuance reign supreme amid a series of persuasive works that cover quite a bit of fertile terrain.