COLLEGIUM MUSICUM

The first progressive album by the band. The most advanced instrument that easily overpowers others are keyboards. Loads of keyboards everywhere. The guitar, drums are a bit shy and restrained, in fact sound closer to the 60's beat than progressive rock. Hammond organ can easily compete with the maestros from Western Europe,does not lack in expressivity, boldness and experimentation.

Obvious influences are classical music, a bit of jazz-rock especially in the sung "If you want to fall". There aren't any great advanced compositional elements. The best parts in that context are in the covered "Concerto in D" which sounds majestic.

"Strange Theme" has a good melody and subtle organ chords. This composition reveals the depth of Vargas talent able to mix rock and classic motives with a bit of avantgarde sounding textures. The jazzy 3/4 instrumental section gives particular space for the bass and Hammond, eventually the guitar providing a straightforward rocking solo.

"Concerto in D" brings orchestra and majestic Hammond to the surface, pretty well executed even if not bringing much exploration.