EPILOG

I have had "Hybris" and "Epilog" for a while now, i got them both at the same time and i have always loved this band. "Hybris" is original, daring and overall a masterpiece. Their music does not sound like something out of the 90's as it has a very early 70's sound to it, this is done by only using instruments and recording techniques that were around in the 70's i believe. So both of their albums have a very great sound that is rare to hear in modern prog. Definetly one for Karnevil9 to consider!

I have been hooked on "Hybris" but sadly, this album does nothing for me. When i first played "Jordrok" from the first album i was instantly blown away by the astonishing piano intro and excellent guitar work. All that is present here, along with some classic Anglagard top notch flute, organ and mellotron work. Unfortunately there is nothing really new or outstanding on this album, whilst Hybris was bold an exciting, this album is boring and dull. "Epilog" is great musically, and no less creative than the debut, except for the lack of vocals this time round. When i listen to this there is nothing that wow's me, it sounds like Anglagard didn't push themselves to create anything different and it is a very mindnumbing album to listen to. This was their last album and not a great way to leave off, but there is enough good material to secure Anglagard as being wonders of the progscene.

The only track that really grabbed my attention was the last track but it was much too short and didn't build to anything, i just really liked that soft piano piece to go out on. As for "Rosten", i have no idea what this track is here for. 14 seconds of humming, it is absolutely pointless. Overall this is a good album, if you begin with this album over "Hybris" then you might lose interest in the band and not want to give "Hybris" a chance. If you listen to this after "Hybris" you will just be bored as this album lacks excitement and passion like the first one did. Overall i would award this album 2 stars for its dullness but since this album IS good musically i think it deserves an extra star. Maybe the live album will feature better highlights from this album but i would just stick with "Hybris".