GAZING THE INVISIBLE

Hailing from Rovaniemi, Finland, Promethean evolved in 1994, when two former members of the Black Metal group Black Crucifixion, singer Timo llvari and bassist Esa Juujarvi, formed a trio along with guitarist Matti Selin.By the time of the first album ''Gazing the Invisible'' they were accompanied by drummer Sami Lehtiniemi and flute player Viljami Jauhiainen.This was released on Avantgarde label in 1997, featuring also some guest musicians on strings and guitars.

''Gazing the Invisible'' has nothing to do with Ilvari's and Juujarvi's past experiences, this one is a Heavy/Progressive Rock record with strong Psychedelic Rock doses, folky Scandinavian flavors and a light retro feeling.It contains both atmospheric and groovier tracks with good arrangements and grows with each listening.Some of them are more guitar-oriented with some nice psychedelic notes next to some more powerful moments, always accompanied by a strong string section or the driving flutes of Jauhiainen, very close to what would be a modern version of TRETTIOARIGA KRIGET meets JETHRO TULL.There are also moments when the music retains a strong CAMEL flavor, especially when the gears are down and the flute is more ethereal.While the whole album has a light folky vibe, a couple of tracks go more into this direction, sort of modern Psychedlic Folk tunes with an impressive atmosphere like the great ''The Kiss of All That Remained''.Vocals are an issue here, both in the singing parts and in the narrations.Very one-dimensional, rather dark and a bit distorted, they do not sound as succesful as the music, which however will definitely reward the listener.

Promethean's first effort is a very good eclectic mix of sounds.Folk, Heavy Rock, Classical Music and Psychedelic Rock, all these styles have plenty of room in Promethean's proposal, which additionally sounds very cohesive.Partly original and strongly recommended stuff despite the mediocre vocals...3.5 stars.