MOTHER TURTLE

A very honest and well-worked album, Mother Turtle's self-titled debut comes to add to the impressive releases from Greece in 2013 and is currently available as a "pay-as-you-wish" option from their bandcamp page.

Their sound is an amalgam of influences from the 70's, mostly relying on heavy prog and guitar rock as confirmed by the impressive opener "707" with characteristic and memorable guitar phrases, resembling to Uriah Heep (Byron era) and Greek legends Socrates Drank the Conium. Not less interesting are the more obscure moments found in "Mother Turtle And The Evil Mushroom part 1" and "Rhinocerotic", especially the latter showing an affection towards King Crimson. Often the heavier moods intertwine with mellower and jazzier passages, in the vein of Fusion Orchestra (the more adventurous) and VDGG (the more eclectic). References to more contemporary acts such as Black Bonzo can also be found on the highlight "God Games" and folksy passages find their way via the "Bridge".

Although the production is not crystal clear and the accented vocals could be improved so that Mother Turtle can make the next big step, this debut is very promising and dynamic, revealing high levels of musicianship, skill and taste.

Watch out for that Mother Turtle! 3.5 stars deserved.