EPILOG

Anglagard's debut album Hybris was such a blast of fresh air for prog fans that the follow-up, Epilog, is sometimes mentioned only as an afterthought. Most prefer the debut, and certainly Epilog holds to the already established signature Anglagard sound. However, the band has clearly evolved a bit between albums, and to me the second album is much more mature from a compositional point of view. It's also a little mellower as a complete unit, but like all of the band's work, the album contains a fair share of very intense moments. Probably the biggest distinction between the two is a more open mix, which allows a better clarity for each individual instrument. It seems as if the band feels a little more comfortable to take their time to allow things to develop.

My first exposure to Anglagard was a prog sampler mix CD a friend made for me which contained the magnificent song Skogsranden. This classic epic begins with pastoral piano, acoustic guitar, and flute, and slowly picks up steam until it's like a train rushing down the mountain. The dynamics are astounding, ranging from soft and delicate to firm punches to the gut. The brutal Anglagard bass comes in, with the electric guitar goading it on in percussive fury. It is perhaps the best track from one of the giants of the genre, probably the best one to come after the classic era.

Compared to the debut, Epilog has a more obvious Genesis influence, especially with the use of flute and increased quiet pastoral sections. Mellotron is also prominently used, along with very occasional vocal textures. Unlike Hybris, no actual lead vocals are used. The two albums actually compliment nicely, combining into a single body of work that is nothing short of masterpiece level. To set aside the second half of that work would be to deprive yourself of some of the best symphonic prog. As essential as Hybris.

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