DEPARTURE

Having "found" this rare Swedish Symphonic Prog band on PA listings i was prompted by the MP3 sample "Crossings" to investigate the group further, and i can honestly say i am far from disappointed with the album as a whole - sparkling sound quality, it is a very interesting listen - some very beautifu,l luscious, sophisticated music which would be ideal, i would say, for late-night listening. At first Eloy came to mind with hints of Mike Oldfield here and there, but i don't mean they sound that much alike as this group have their own unique sound, but i would say if you are into the aforementioned artists i'm sure you would enjoy The Foundation.

There are some lovely soundscapes here using synthesisers and some beautiful 12 and 6 string acoustic guitar, fretless bass, though i found the drumming somewhat unintrusive overall it is allowed to really show out in places, especially on the aforementioned "Crossings", the liveliest piece on the album. The album is mostly instrumental, though the songwriting is good but not that strong, my favourite tracks (including "Crossings") are the "D Day" suite, the 12 minute "Final Thoughts, Departure", and the two bonus tracks are really wonderful, "Red Roses (and my very best wishes)" and the 15 minute "Don't Wake Me Up".

For me this album has been something of a "departure" from what i usually listen to, "mainstream" rock/metal, early Prog and Prog Metal, so on this occasion i've been well rewarded for trying something different - you never know! This is one album i'm keeping, an excellent addition to my growing, expanding Prog collection!