(pre-release review- mixing may change prior to the album's release. 
I sometimes receive albums and music that I shouldn't. Being involved in a Prog site, obviously warrants you to listen to progressive music. Many times a musician or their representation will send me something out of the prog genre, or borderline, hoping that their past accomplishments in a prog band will be the right connection as they persuade more commercial outlets.
Multi-talented Barbara Rubin's `Under the Ice,' album is a borderline prog release, in the vein of Kate Bush (without the bombastic epic trappings of her early period). Barbara's prog background comes from the reincarnated version of Italian neo-prog band- Arcansiel, in which she plays keys and violin.
Barbara's versatile voice can touch a listener with beauty and sultriness, and in the blink of an eye, build to a powerful singer with the emotional residue of a Janus Joplin. Her English is quite good. Her piano work reflects her vocal style perfectly with a wonderful mixture of the beautiful and confident. Adding the angelic sounds of her violin, and guest musicians, and you have a very good, yet short first solo album, a disc full of potential.
`Under The Ice,' was penned and played by Barbara, but she had help which included: Alberto Rondano, Paolo Baltaro, Andrea Garavelli, Simone Morandotti, and a host of others. Eleven tracks, comprise the brief thirty-four minute disc which is suprisingly mostly in English.
The opening and title track is my personal favorite. `Under the Ice,' which showcases the wondrous side of her vocals, lyrics, and keys. The song easily reflects the mood of the front cover. The emotional build is captivating and showing a delicate luminosity, that changes colors and builds.
`Angel Heartbeat', is another beautiful song that has gorgeous atmosphere.
The lone Italian-sung piece- “I was myself and are”, combines an excellent vocal duet with atmospheres of color. Simply gorgeous.
One thing I would like to hear is more of a clarity in the mix or the approach to her vocals. Sometimes her voice and the piano fight over dominance and slightly counter each other out.
Production is strong. Guest musicians are solid; supporting the mood and give the album proper textures and flavor. Album is quite short.
Album art, is a simple beautiful photo of her on white. Good composition, it does reflect her quieter aspects of her voice perfectly.
Barbara Rubin has a ton of limitless potential. As this is a partial prog release, I can imagine her debut album to be a springboard for higher levels of creativity. With her roots in prog, prog-metal, and elements of rock, and how she mixes elements to create her own special music; it would be interesting to see her embrace the elements of prog more often in her compositions. I would love to see more lengthy songs, that contain more dynamics and mixing a style or two within the song; as well as utilize a greater use and variety of synths and keys. And lastly, I would like to hear more songs in Italian, it's such a beautiful language. Barbara's an excellent musican; it would be neat to see her `show off' a bit. I think she has much more to say than quick 3 minute pieces.
For lovers of classic prog, you might want to check out Barbara's work in Arcansiel first before exploring Ms. Rubin's world. For fans of Kate Bush, this is a definite listen. It's going to be fun following this multi-talented individual and see where she ability takes her. Bravo.
8.8 rating. Remember, rating are subjective and tend to lean toward more proggier sensibilities.
