BORN INTO TROUBLE AS THE SPARKS FLY UPWARDS

This second ASMZ is maybe the most mysterious and enigmatic of their records but also the one that epitomize best what ASMZ is all about, but this still makes it hard to describe - a post-rock album being never easy (and downright difficult sometimes) to review. Obscure and sober artwork sleeve design with the fewest information possible about both the music and the musicians are not helping this reviewer.

The first track is starting with nightmarish rumblings slowly developing into a charming celestial and ethereal atmosphere with a superb guitar that might remind the most contemplative Steve Howe moments. This same atmosphere is the main feature in the second track but not as finely crafted, while the next track plunges into oblivion. The record gets a much needed second wind when a humming violin and full strings behind it as well as urgent chanting prepare the listener for a rocky and eerie ride providing a second excellent highlight on the fourth track. Soon followed by a very tense and beautiful yet sombre three tracks where the strings play a central role and make the backbone of the album. The last tracks starts with a return to the ever-plaintive ASMZ vocals and a very calm exit to a great but not flawless album.

If the prospective proghead is to investigate the GYBE! offshoot, he might try to locate this album first and check out if he likes it before venturing further on as the other albums are even more intimate and personal. Clearly their better album so far!!!

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