ROOTS AND ROADS (AS YOSSI SASSI BAND)

The title track (direct translation of "Roots and Roads" to Greek) shows that Yossi is on a slightly different trajectory. First, the name is now Yossi Sassi Band, potentially showing a more inclusive approach to songwriting (?). Essentially, the core of the band has remained the same since 2012 and solo debut ''Melting Clocks'' but the fusion of influences has slightly changed.

In his third album, Yossi seems to balance out Greek, Asia Minor and Near-eastern tradition with heavier sounds closer to progressive metal (and not surprisingly, at times resembling to Orphaned Land), abandoning the more virtuoso playing and jazzy passages for the sake of something more ''traditional'' and it works. Although not boasting of numerous time signatures and chopping riffs, ''Roots and Roads'' appears as Yossi's most experimental and varied work, even if rooted in what many call "oriental" rock. Here we find traditional Greek zeimpekiko ('Rizes kai Dromoi'), mediterranean folk (Wings, Mr. NoSoul, Bird Without a Tree), middle-eastern experimental progressive metal ('Palm Dance', 'The Religion of Music') and even references to Opeth in the suprise closing 'Stronger than Ever'.

Tracks such as the instrumental 8-minute monster 'Winter' sum up the quality of this album, proving the turn to more progressive song structures. 'The Religion of Music' reminded me of Jorn Lande and the years of Ark, and 'Road Less Traveled' features beautiful female vocals on galopping riffs and a travelling mood.

Warmly recommended - 3.5 stars which might become 4 after a few more listens.

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