PRINCIPLES AND THEORY OF SPEKTRA

Principles and Theory of Spektra is a sequel to Spektra from Karfagen in 2016. What is amazing about this release is that it was mainly recorded around the same time. Antony took this off his shelf, gave it some tweaks and we have a splendid new album. I cannot believe this was shelved way back. It is first class and the quality of the music is highly rated. Only one other album of shelved music got me as excited, and that was Jethro Tull's Nightcap album.

A lot of familiar musicians return to fulfil Antony's musical vision and give full account in this journey. Including Max Velychko on guitars, Elena Kushiy on flute with Eddie Mulder guesting on the third track, Phantasmagoria.

Containing mostly mid-sized length of tracks. Some earlier released as singles such as 'Hunter' and 'Levitation'. 'Phantasmagoria' is my favourite track at near 13 minutes long. It opens with a tender start by acoustic guitar and piano. Moving into soft keyboards followed with some flute. A slight pick up in speed half way through with a hint of jazz and an air of mystery proceeds. The climax involving guitar and Antony's magical fingers dancing on the keyboard.

'Birth of a Star' evokes just that. You can envisage a star being born listening to this piece. It has an immediate melody that grows into duel electric guitars with parts having the feel of space, again flutes and keyboard delivering this sense of feeling.

Next comes 'Calypso', this has a start that rocks and hits you. More flute enters with soft electric guitar and moody keyboards. A short repeat of the previous album '7' makes a welcome appearance. There is a tribal feel later in the track. A tremendous finish to this album ensues with 'Gravitation'.

A great companion to the earlier album, Spektra. As with all Karfagen albums, a great addition to anyone's prog rock collection.

Antony has created another wonderful musical interlude by digging in his past. He has made a rough diamond into a shining jewel.