CICLOTIMIA

Amagrama started in 1998 in Buenos Aires,as a cover band featuring young schoolboys Agustín Amaya (keyboards), his brother Juan (drums), Javier Martinez (electric bass), and Pablo Martín (guitar).However they would call themselves ''Komodin/Vinculo'' initially and change the name its time they were joined by a new guitarist,a spot in which the band really suffered.Eventually Alejandro Graziano would reside with the band,which by early 00's had switched into a more symphonic/progressive style of playing.Their debut ''Ciclotimia'' was published in 2004 on Record Runner.

Mostly instrumental, ''Ciclotimia'' is an impressive bombastic debut of Symphonic Rock with occasional Melodic Progressive Rock and Fusion touches.Amagrama follow the likes of modern bands like NEXUS, TOCCATA or SOLIS,this is a very grandiose-sounding and rich debut with keyboards on the forefront and heavy guitars, often stepping into the metal field.Most of the compositions include magnificent keyboard/guitar interplays and mindblowing breaks with plenty of Classical references but also a strong sense of melody.The work of Agustin Amaya is awesome, starting from the bombastic and symphonic synth flashes and often offering a variety of organ passages along with delicate piano.Graziano seems to be the other hero here: great solos, powerful riffs and a great collaboration with Amaya's sounds.Some of the tracks have also a strong-rooted Fusion vibe in a 70's feel, not unlike compatriots CRUCIS or Dutch virtuosos FINCH, where guitar and keyboard battles are constant but always in a very inspired way like the nice opening cut, the superb ''Fabulas de un titere'' or the even better closing highlight ''Recluso artista''.The shorter ones have a more melodic aspect with an artistic feeling and are led by the vocals of Agustin Amaya, which are pretty sensitive, though not outstanding.

It is very hard to imagine that such a mindblowing and professional album was created by a bunch of 18-years old teenagers.This fact makes the listening even more challenging and attractive and ''Ciclotimia'' is a must-have for anyone into both modern and Classic Progressive Rock along with fans of complex and progressive Fusion musicianship.