‘Canada – Stories and Legends’ is the second 2024 release by Projekt Gemineye. The album takes a thematic turn from ‘What’s On You Mind’. This time Mark Anthony K takes the listener of a look at his home country of Canada. No, it’s not an ode to hockey and poutine. It’s a look at the development of the great country to our north, with the scars as well as the achievements that many are not aware of. The theme of the album seems difficult to capture in 5 songs, and K doesn’t try to capture the entire storied history. His short glimpse at some of Canada’s history is enough to whet the listeners appetite. Furthermore, his metallic sensabilities and musicianship are at the forefront. “Ghost Ship” immediately capture your attention with its powerful chorus guitar intro, melodic lead guitar and a ferocious double time section incorporating guitar and synthesizers. K’s use of the ride cymbals and a more relaxed drum pattern supports the lyrical context of a ship which appears and disappears off the coast of Nova Scotia. The song’s imagery is as powerful as the music. “Racing The Flames” , a progressive metal in the best of that genre, smokes ! The twelve minute masterpiece builds on a foundation of Hammond organ, acoustic piano and direct rymthmic passages. The song demonstrates a fascinating shift in time signatures  and jaunty bass playing to support K’s lyrics which are delivered clearly and powerfully in the mix. The song, which focuses on ecological challenges in Canada also features some of K’s best lead guitar work on the album and powerful church organ and Moog-sythn passages. All effective in supporting the story. “This Promised Life” changes things up with its Rush-like 12- string guitar intro passage, 70’s style analog synth stylings and slashing guitar leads. Lyrically, the song addresses a universal issue of immigration, and specifically the impact of those who were asked to come to Canada and the barriers they face. “Drive North- 1901” kicks off with swirling Canadia wind and atmospheric synths and a gong before a driving AOR-like piano riff.   K’s Gibson Les Paul shifts the mood as the Geoff Downes-like keyboard part and massive bass and drums help to provide the song a sonic kick. Lyrically the song touches on the Canadian gold rush telling a story which is not well known wby non-Canadians yet is identifiable. The end guitar/synth breakdown hammers the lyrical points of the song with a remarkable urgency. “The Lost Generation”, the first single from ‘Canada – Stories and Legends’ is a worthy addition to the Projekt Gemineye canon with equally provocative and direct lyrics and a musical urgency which invites air guitar playing and repeated listening. At 40 minutes, you feel the album is just getting started when it ends. 

https://youtu.be/a92uUTI2kJE?si=vaR5eGzp1fdFqoI6