99

This is unfortunately the last studio album of this very good Polish band.

Sometimes at the edge of metal music, catchy melodies aren't forgotten here. Adam Łassa is still so passionate (especially when he is signing in his mother language). The opening track for instance is one of their wildest song, but these perfect and harmonious vocals add such a great balance.

There will be several breaks to these heavy and metal sounds, like the short and spacey "Czekam" for instance. Another of the very good song of this album is "Jezebel". A sweet instrumental intro is preceding one of the most vibrant vocals part you can imagine. This is a tranquil song, full of simplicity. Mostly instrumental : aerial keys combined with such a wonderful and melodic guitar break. Shivers down my spine when I listen to it. My fave here. Almost seven minutes of pure joy.

But this album IS pure joy. "Spowiedz" is another of their very catchy neo metal song full of harmony, with an upbeat tempo. Another very good composition as "Anatema" which starts on a spacey mood but soon turns out into a solid and extremely vigorous track. But, as usual, these vocal lines are so incredible. Adam is really a fantastic lead singer, but his band mates don't fall shy. "Abraxas" as a whole is a very interesting band even if I have difficulties to swallow "Petla Medialna".

The music played by Abraxas should have placed them high in the prog rock family. But they might have started their career too early, when it was very difficult for a Polish band to export their music. But IMHHO, they opened the way to modern Polish prog (together with Collage). They should also be recognized as such. Bravo for this, gentlemen!

After all, this album holds so many great melodic songs of which "Medalion" is just one more (even if the final part is rocking alright), that you can't consider this work as close to prog metal. And even if I know that lots of progheads are not very keen on the neo sub- genre, I strongly advise them to do an effort and listen to this great band. Original and mighty music but combined with passion and feeling.

Yes, you'll get all of this with "Abraxas" even if "Iris" sounds not so good. Somewhat too synthetic to my taste. But the closing instrumental number is brilliant again. Melancholic guitar break and whispering vocals...Such a magnificent way to close this excellent work.

Four stars for 99.