MOONDRIVE PLUS

This EP was the debut recorded efford by dutch instrumental band Odyssice. I got the second edition, which has two extra tracks. My first contact with this outstanding band was via their Impression CD. I was wondering if they were that good at the beginning and I was glad I got Moondrive Plus. Although very short (37 minutes with the extra tracks), the music inside is worth every penny you pay for it. Everyone should listen to the magical guitar solos by Bastiaan Peeters, one of the best new talents around. His playing is a joy to hear, absolute gorgeous in the best Andy Latimer tradition.

But lets not forget his band mates: keyboardsman Joeroen Van Der Wiel is equally a great musician, choosing tasteful timbres and sounds from 70´s instruments, with lush arrangements and adding some wonderful counterpoints to the guitar. Bass and drums are strong, tight and very, very effective. But nothing would work so well if they were not the excellent songwriters they show to be here.The music is elaborated and varied, but also melodic, accessible and exciting. The four original tracks are absolute perfect and absolute essential for any prog lover. The extra songs are nice, maybe not as powerful as the original four, but very good anyway.

Odyssice impressed me a lot with their Impression CD (no pun intended, please), but Moondrive proved they were a one of a kind type of band from day one. This EP is a masterpiece of prog music. Highly recommended!