SOMMERABEND

An album whose reputation might be a wee bit overblown. For sure, if you like string synths, this is the record for you. Novalis's sound at this time was lush, with layers of keys (primarily string synth, organ and el-piano) and acoustic guitars making up the bulk of the sound. There is also some decent electric lead playing. The band's problem is the three long compositions don't really go anywhere. They are repetetive without being meditative, with the exception of the first half of the title track, which is very pretty, with water sounds layered over sustained keyboard chords and broken acoustic guitar chords. This is the only part of the record that really holds my attention. Vocals are sparse but all right, not particularly charismatic. The band is unconvincing when they try to pick it up, sounding a bit sloppy and not particularly rocking. Overall, however, I do have to say that the mood of the record is contemplative, which I enjoy. Definitely from the Pulsar/Eloy school of symphonic. A decent record, but I do hope it's not their best, because it's a bit middling.