SILHOUETTE MOON

I'm very surprised this band hasn't garnered more attention on PA - it would seem to be the perfect sort of band the site should love - a nod to the past but quite radically different from bands of the 70s and 80s. They seem to have ended up in "neo" quite by accident - really symphonic or eclectic would seem to be a better fit. Anyway....

Silhouette Moon caught my interest off the basis of a "Prog" magazine cover disc. The album seems to be a concept piece based on dreams - presumably a rather restless night's sleep. Nearly all the instruments are played by the two brothers who are the only members of the band., with some classic organ/keyboard sounds mixed with very modern guitar which makes for an unusual but very pleasant juxtaposition. Elements of Post-rock, Heavy prog and even Jazz-rock can be heard amidst the mainly symphonic sound.

If I'd reviewed this a couple of weeks ago it would have got a very worthy four stars as a pleasant album. The thing is it just demands yet another spin each day and grows with every one, until I've become convinced that this is the finest release I've heard this year, (well maybe 2nd to Big Big Train, but that's a hell of a high standard). The outstanding 20 minute central suite (tracks 3 to 5) and the beautiful "Ballad of Night" just drip with melody and invention. The vocals are mainly restrained but perhaps Paul Davis should let himself go a bit more - when he cuts loose they contain real punch and fire.

Based on this album I really hope the Davis brothers try to put a full band together and do some live gigs - I'd be there in a heartbeat. The surprise of the year so far - and possibly the album of the year too.