ÎLE DE FIÈVRE

If Italian progressive rock had slumped by the end of the 1970s, the French were definitely doing their part at the tail end of the decade. Shylock were similair to Italian bands in that they only left behind two albums worth of material, but they definitely did their part in saying a lot with a little.

This all-instrumental album is most likely classified as symphonic, as it carries many of the dark overtones of compatriots Arachnoid and Pulsar, but Shylock also feature a strong fusion angle, especially through the guitar.

In addition to the sharp guitar attack, another "fusiony" edge comes through in the jagged rhythms, which points in small part to Zappa early 70s work and the Mahavishnu Orchestra. Another comparison would be Italy's Arti e Mestieri, although not nearly as melodic in their songwriting. The track "Himogene" also reminds me of the funkier, looser side of Goblin. The keyboards have the dark, brooding quality which fans of French prog would consider a staple. They have a rich, analog depth that sets a great stage for the rest of the band.