BLACK NOISE

Toronto-based Canadian band FM began as a duo of Cameron Hawkins (lead vocals/bass/synths) and a mysterious figure hidden under surgical bandages named Nash the Slash (violin/mandolin/vocals) in 1976.The group first recorded in July 1976 live in studio at a half an hour show three long pieces,later to be added in the ''Black noise'' album.This early demo sound was not to be released until 2001.By February the duo became a trio with the addition of Martin Deller on drums/synths.After an appearance on CBC,they recorded their debut ''Black noise'',initially treated as a limited copy album by CBC distributed by mail order (!!),only to have better luch the next year,when FM signed with Visa Records.

''Black noise'' is a semi-commercial Art Rock/Prog album,easily accesible,but very sophisticated and mature at the same time.The sound comes like a cross between AMBROSIA,KANSAS and U.K. with beautiful melodies throughout,strong synthesizers,fantastic electric violin and heavy use of electric mandolin instead of guitars.Vocals are quite great with some polyphonic passages as well.Influences range from Art Pop and violin-based Fusion to Symphonic and Space Rock with extended use of synthesizers.Many prog fans will find plenty of similarities with the upcoming Neo Prog sound at the synth-driven parts and the vocal-driven choruses.The band delivers also plenty of synth- and violin solos to show a sufficient virtuosic and technical level,but all of them into elaborate and well-crafted songs,

Towards the end of the Classic Prog-era,FM produced an album,which would show that sophisticated rock music can be both accesible and demanding.''Black noise'' comes strongly recommended to lovers of Art Rock adventures with various influences and inspirations...3.5 stars.