MOODS

I'm always in the right temperament to listen to "Moods", the second album by the Utrecht-based neo-prog band Silhouette. There are numerous reasons for this: the four musicians give it their all, their skill is impressive, the compositions are well-crafted and the decision to have the album mixed and mastered by Gerben Klazinga consistently proves to be the right one. I can understand why the Swedish label Progress Records, run by Hansi Cross, teamed up with the band back then. You don't come across such talent every day. However, I would do Silhouette a great disservice if I were to only portray them as talented. "Moods" actually showcases a perfect blend of youthful exuberance and a mature approach. In my opinion, "Moods" is highly enjoyable.

The twelve-track album opens with the bombastic sounds of Concert Hangover, immediately immersing you in the atmosphere of the album. Then the band slows down a bit and drummer Jos Uffing guides you through the song with his warm, passionate voice. A strong moment is when keyboardist Erik Laan unleashes his Mellotron sounds and Moog riffs upon you. His finesse is emblematic of Silhouette and it's safe to say that his bandmates are just as smooth in their playing.

In the next three songs, guitarist Brian de Graeve takes on vocal duties. His high, clear voice can be compared to that of Mark Smit (ex-Knight Area), Bart Schram (Mindgames) and Martin Scheffer (Taurus)?typical neo-prog style. Crafting pleasant vocal melodies is something the band excels at. This is evident in Don't Threaten My Peace Of Mind. In Searching For Her, he constantly alternates lead vocals with Jos Uffing and despite their contrasting voices (clear versus swollen), the album maintains a cohesive vocal sound. Meanwhile, Laan keeps riffing away and in addition to the numerous Mellotron sounds, he occasionally provides heartfelt piano playing. The album flows smoothly and it's worth noting that the band hits every note spot on. As a guitarist, de Graeve doesn't leave a significant imprint on the music. His playing is mostly supportive in nature, with the occasional melody or solo courtesy of Aldo Adema.

An exceptional track is Unreal Meeting, where Silhouette captivates you for over ten minutes at their best. What's great about the band is that you won't find any superfluous notes anywhere on the album. Other notable songs in the final stretch are the instrumental title track Moods and the well-constructed Another Bed Time Story, in which the guitar shines. Oh and when I listen to the thematic title track, I hear a melody from the opening track reappear. That's a nice touch.

The album concludes with the bombastic The Answers, completing the concept about a love drama devised by de Graeve.

"Moods" is a recommendation for neo-prog enthusiasts and it's a treat for keyboard aficionados. The emotional value you'll derive from the album is on par with that of later albums like "Across The Rubicon" and "Beyond The Seventh Wave". Admittedly, those are qualitatively better albums, if I may say so, but "Moods" certainly deserves to be in the same league.

Orginally posted on www.progenrock.com