GALLEONS OF PASSION

The third (and last) album of Dutch Symphonic/fusion progressive rock band Finch is a debatable one. A change in direction made the band loose some of it's attractive elements.

Now, first of all. Finch is still a band with the best of musicians. Peter Vink on bass is definitely one of the best bass-players of the scene with his fast riffs/solo's and solid playing. Guitar- player Joop van Nimwegen is almost as good as Jan Akkerman (who referred to him as one of Holland's most talented guitar-players). The keys and drums are steady, but mainly the keys are a bit more laid-back on this third album.

The compositions are less chaotic, less fast and there are less musical ideas thrown into the mix. All tracks are still instrumental and all still have meaningless titles, as did all their other tracks. The band has as slight focus on the modern fusion sound, with lot's of slow chord progressions and a modern synth sound. The band impresses with sounding very professional. The compositions are not fully original, some of the harmonic structures and melodies remind a bit too much of their older works. Taken this in account, I like really like all the tracks and their are many great balanced bombastic and atmospheric moments, great solo's and some tracks have strong development. The atmospheres often travel between dark symphonic , relaxing fusion en exciting classical influenced symphonic hard rock. The overall result is a relaxing, yet exciting symphonic/fusion record.

The recording/sound of this album is just perfect. All instruments sound full and the overall mix is good. The warmth of the record fills the room nicely.

Conclusion. I can understand a lot of people would rather have had a more progressive record with more 'muchness' in the composition, but I actually think this is a great achievement for the band. All are great musicians, all have great moments and the record is actually quite relaxing, whilst still being impressive enough to listen to it whilst sitting in my executive chair. Three and a halve stars, rounded up (mainly because of the great recording).

Share this FINCH review

Social review comments () BETA

---

---

Review related links

• Send comments to friso
• Report this review (#424173)
• Buy FINCH music online with PA partners
• Show all FINCH MP3/Stream
• Go to FINCH page for videos, full discography with ratings, reviews and much more
• Go to Galleons Of Passion page for more details, where to buy and ratings/reviews
• Search the Forum for FINCH related discussions