NO AIR

Review #9 2021 has already given us many albums, some of them extraordinary, and "No Air" by the Dutch band "Perfect Storm" also fits seamlessly into this series of successes. I am absolutely thrilled - and will now justify why. "Perfect Storm" consists of six great musicians, who on their first album create a very pleasant synthesis of prog, rock and jazzy harmony changes, which on the one hand can please in its heterogeneity and on the other hand also provides many goosebump moments.

Characteristic for the music of "Perfect Storm" is the high variety, which is offered to the listener. This ranges from delicate piano sounds to powerful guitar riffs, so that the album always sounds dynamic and always builds in the right places increases, which then develop sometimes predictable, sometimes unpredictable in a certain musical direction. This is progressive rock! For me personally, however, the highlight of the album is called Adel Saflou. He has this voice that carries you away, that touches you and in which there is so much energy that you could even enjoy it acapella. Saflou's vocals are the hallmark of the album, which are complemented and accompanied by beautiful vocals from singer Hiske Ossterwijk. Together they create breathtaking harmony vocals in places that the keyboardist has to think carefully about which chords he can put underneath. Keyword keyboard: Ard Offer's keyboard playing is another highlight, as he can skillfully switch between roaring B3 hammond sounds and neo-progressive sweetish pads.

In the end I feel positively invigorated, as within the songs many musical sections end on major tones and you never get the feeling that you are listening to a gloomy or even gray album. Top! For me one of the strongest debut albums of the year so far. Clear recommendation for all melodic prog listeners. I'm already looking forward to the second album of this fantastic band. 4,5 Stars!!!