ADONIS

The debut album by this band from Baden-Würtemberg, Stuttgart. The music is quite mature and shows that the guys absorbed several influences from the 70's music like Genesis.

All musicians master their instruments with dignity; guitars are confident, agressive or calm. Keyboards are omnipresent and not only play solo or background chords but also create tasty textures. Drums are dynamic but I don't like their sound.

The first, title track shows that vocals are not strong or not comparable to instruments. Thankfully, they are not used often. "Blue House" offers symphonic keyboard moments before entering a mellow guitar section and the pace stays slow.

"Sally" starts as an Elton John song but with much worse voice, the piano compensates for it. To be fair, guys attempt singing harmony vocals and there is a good saxophone part. Thanks to the brass section and drums, one can feel jazz and Canterbury influence.

In comparison "Anyone's daughter" is much more serious and solemn. Synths, organ and guitar play together before a Hammond solo speeds music up. Intensive pace won't stop and vocals join. There are several rhythmical changes.

I recommend this CD to all progressive rock fans but there is nothing exceptional or largely original about this album.