UNFOLDED LIKE STAIRCASE

This very good progressive rock record has many influences, especially from the major progressive rock bands of the 70's: the first one that comes to mind is definitely Van Der Graaf Generator. Indeed, the tracks are rather sad and dark, there are many sax parts, and there is the omnipresence of an organ that sounds like VDGG's; even the lead vocals have the Hammill's style, despite a pretty different and most of all much more bearable tone is involved. I prefer this record than any VDGG's one because the compositions here are more varied, more moving, more melodic, more lively and more elaborated: the omnipresence of a lightly rebel rhythmic electric guitar slightly gives the ensemble a modern King Crimson's influence, and on the other hand, the background mellotron arrangements and some delicate guitar parts evoke the early King Crimson's albums. The numerous complaining electric guitar solos provide a true HARD ROCK character to this record, reminding a bit a more timid Nektar's sound. An omnipresent rhythmic piano a la Kayak is really a strong point here: it builds a solid, melodic and not so fast rhythm that contributes to make this band unique. Some rare & pleasant modern keyboards arrangements complete this surprising anachronic work. There are some pleasant RHYTHMIC mellotron in the background! The are also some interesting acoustic guitar arrangements. The bass is very loud and bottom, and the drums do a very good job. I think this record is an acquired taste: it grew inside of me and it took about 3 listens to be fully fixed. No doubt that VDGG is substantially surpassed here. To produce such an anachronic album in 1997 was a tour de force I must admit!