SUBMARINE SILENCE

I bought this cd recently, based on what I read about it here. And I have to say I am not disappointed by it at all! Ok, it is a little derivative of Genesis, but in a positive way. Submarine are certainly more than a simple clone band. Yes, they are reminiscent of Genesis at times, but their music is strong enough to stand on its own, and should be enjoyed for what it is; simply a good, melodic record. Keyboards are particularly strong, and the opening short track, 'The Door', is played in a way that reminds one of Tony Banks around the time of the release of his debut solo album, A Curious Feeling. You will be reminded of this more than once as you listen to the cd. Track two is one of the highlights. 'Bicycle Ride' has some quite Hackett inspired guitar work, and again interesting keyboards. The rest of the album is somewhat similar, being in the main on the quiet, melodic side. Drums and percussion are solid and well played, and quite effective in holding the songs together. Oh yes, all the tracks are instrumentals too, so you don't have to worry about checking out the lyrics. Other highlights are 'Mr Submarine's Ordinary Day (Part 1)', 'Shores Where Time Stands Still' and 'Porto Di Venere'. But all the tracks are good, with nice acoustic guitar running throughout. Recommended to fans of Genesis, and to fans of instrumental music in general. In fact, this could be prog's version of easy listening. But in a good way. I will give it three stars, but four stars are not out of the question.