POWERED BY LIGHT

Very positive statement by Kinetic Element in a release that is full of the "light" side of progressive rock of the 70's (mainly), resting heavily on the prog giants of the symphonic movement such as ELP, Yes and Genesis. Lush keyboards border between Neo and symphonic and there is a general aura of optimism that will please the traditional prog rock fans. The "dark" side is utterly missing and that might influence your view on the album or not bother you at all.

Several jazzy moments in the vein of The Tangent and Beardfish are deviations and similar is the tribute paid to IQ (especially on the closing highlight). Long album but with enough composition and quality work to support it, "Powered by Light" is a debut that many bands would like to have. With more work on the personal expression and character of the band, and the progressive untying of knots with the long-distant past, the next album might make the step that this has not.

Symphonic/neo prog rock fans will enjoy this thoroughly, especially if you like long compositions that flow very well with one another.

Best moments: Riding in Time, See the Children. Least interesting: Meditation

3.5 stars and very warmly recommended