LENDAS ENCANTADAS

This is the second album I have discovered from this Brazilian band.

After the excellent "Aurora Dos Sonhos", this follow-up sounds more neo with still a fine symphonic angle. It is immediately obvious since this aspect is already available while the opening number is being played ("Miragem"). It is very dynamic and powerful song (reminding me at times "Parallels" but with a "Genesis" angle!).

This good start is not really confirmed with the other tracks: somewhat repetitive recipe: lots of keys, upbeat music and fully (good) neo mood. It is amazing to see how fast the band has changed from style of music. The whole sounds melodic ("Virada do Século") but unachieved. Half of the songs are quite short (around the three minutes mark). This format doesn't allow much research and there is little room for instrumental passages ("Luzes da Vida").

One has to wait for the eighth song to listen to a brilliant and emotive guitar break. Finally! Great ?but too short, unfortunately. Most of the songs though only holds the basics of the neo-prog style ("Chamando Por Ajuda" which almost means "Crying For Help" but there is no relation with "Arena").

Symphonic lovers will probably be disappointed (as I am) with this release which couldn't confirm the excellent "Aurora Dos Sonhos". Even the epic and closing number features little passages to be remembered. Three stars (but this is on the upside).