INSOMNIA

I was already keen on the epic 'The Chimney, The Wheel And The War' which can be found on the forerunner album 'I Me Myself'. Have to confess that they really surprised me at first, as the new stuff did not sound like that identically named band I was aware of before. 'Insomnia' marks a step away from the dwelled symphonic fundament, towards eclectic art rock, this augmented with some spacey vibe and weird moments. Or maybe one can say they have opened a new session which is focussed on a more widespread and experimental approach? Let's see. Good for us most certainly.

There are only a few prog bands hailing from Cuba, and ANIMA MUNDI probably are the best known, partly because intensively touring Europe in the past. The band's core remains stable on this occasion, that includes Roberto Díaz (guitars), Yaroski Corredera (bass), Marco Alonso (drums) and the lovely Virginia Peraza taking care of a wide range of keyboard stuff. The task to cull a new lead singer may have caused some insomnia anyhow. But it's okay. Aivis Prieto comes in provided with a qualified voice and little accent. But I'm not sure if he is undertaking the lead during the gentle ballad Her Song where the vocals are showing advantage at best. Though maybe it's Roberto Díaz actually.

Certainly nice, seriously, not joking yet, a proper method to lull you into sleep, without the need for any pills. But before that will happen, there is a lot going on which needs fair attention. The opening Citadel is serving a groovy entry. Prominent synths and jazzy hints throughout. The spacey Swans will take you far away into another spheric dimension, which finally will end into an Electric Credo, a fantastic avant tinged band outing. The Hunter is underway then on well known symphonic paths.

Every song has its own identity, saxophone and trumpet input here and there, smooth jazzy excursions from time to time. The title song expresses a fascinating silky mood with singalong ability, which will end Porcupine Tree alike somehow. On the other hand they are offering neat aggressive impulse during New Tribes Item. Excellent, great move. All correct when it comes to my taste. In the face of a diversified behaviour a coherent result anyhow. 'Insomnia' is an album I'm really fond of in the meanwhile.