SNOWTORCH

Snowtorch was a long-awaited album for me since I am a strict follower of the glorius Phideaux. Firstly I have to say something about the album and actually generally about Phideaux: You can hear lots of influences which are a true success in catching the real gem of 70's progressive rock music but what you really hear is Phideaux itself. They somehow manage to create their own insight of music and they have a great way to share it with the listener. When you listen a song form them you easily say that 'yes, this is Phideaux'. And in Snowtorch it is no different than this.

Firstly the lyrics are really good, a questioning approach to the rulers of the universe or a man who is trying to re-born upon his ashes with some observations that he had never done before. A good concept in my opinion.

Snowtorch Part One is easily the best song on the album in my opinion. Starting with some cool lyrics and turning out to be one of the greatest songs of the band ever. The heavy piano playing, dynamic drumming and and some instrumental-ish singings by the unique vocals of the band. Sometimes you get a great Van der Graaf Generator feeling in the dynamic moments of the song.

Helix starts off with some dreamy vocals and cool chords by the keyboard. I think this song is good example of the psychedelic side of Phideaux. The repetitive acoustic guitar and drum work with some cool keyboard melodies going along with them. This is a really psychedelic improvisation which actually makes the listener wonder more about what to come.

Snowtorch Part Two, in my opinion is the hardest piece on the album to digest. I found it kind of awkward and boring at first but after lots of listens the song made itself clear. The acoustic guitar introduces the song with some dynamic drumming again and it flows really well after that.

'...' is kind of a restart to the album with some nice violin work.

To sum up; Snowtorch is in my opinion one of the best releases of the last decade. Influences from VdGG and Genesis are the minor factors that making this album a little more beautiful. But the whole composition itself is actually what is making this album almost a masterpiece. I would give this one 9/10 but since I can not do it and I'd not like to call it a masterpiece I am giving this album a well deserved 4 star.