DREAM OBJECT 5

Those who are fond of symphonic and vintage Neo-progressive rock both should find this latest effort from French band Ex-Vagus to be a real treat.

Musically residing somewhere in between Genesis, Ange and Camel of old and Fish-era Marillion, this is an album that ooze distinct melodies, carefully crafted symphonic textures as well as lush synth-dominated themes from start till finish.

The synths dominate the proceedings totally, everything else has a more or less subordinate role to the mostly multilayered textures provided by various forms of tangents. And the vocals, delivered in a manner which should be recognizable by most fans of Ange and which can be described as theatrical with semi-operatic qualities, does add a distinct flavour to these compositions. As far as Neo-touches go, these are mostly found in the atmospheric lush passages spread throughout this effort, including some rather delicate harmonic guitar soloing.

For those who think this description sounds tantalizing, this CD will most likely become a treasured item in your collection. A well made effort overall, touching upon the truly brilliant with final track The Clay Spirits.