GREEN DIVINE

A few days left to the official release date, but I feel the time is right for me to review this breath-taking, ambitious concept double album, having already shared my initial impression in my review on 'Green Love'. There I expressed my ambivalent feelings concerning the over-theatrical and acrobatic vocals. Let's just say that I did get over that issue and I'm now capable (again) to accept them as an integral part of the highly unique Octopie sound!

First about the concept. "In a near-future world where creativity is stifled and freedom of expression is a distant memory, music has been hijacked by an authoritarian regime as a tool of control." The plot follows "Diamond, a disillusioned employee of the regime, who discovers the forbidden music of the underground band (...) leading to her exile from Dollar City and a perilous journey..." Therefor the album is "a story of resistance, transformation and the enduring power of authentic art." There may be a slight resemblance of '2112' and Kilroy Was Here but Octopie's dystopic vision is truly their own. Another question is, how well the listener can visualize the characters, the surroundings and the action in his/her mind. I find it rather difficult.

Octopie plays hard-boiled 100% prog I'd categorize as Eclectic Prog. Gentle Giant, VdGG and the early Queen could be among their influences. The arrangements feature flute and trumpet, and a good variety of keyboards is essential to the sound, as are definitely the passionate vocals that bravely use falsetto every now and then.

Those who have enjoyed Octopie's earlier works won't have difficulties to cherish Green Divine as the band's marvelous Magnum Opus. The 86+ minute 2-CD album is a big and exhausting thing to absorb, and had I chosen a more negative reception I might say it's an overblown mess full of complexity for its own sake, and with a bit clichéd concept. But, especially on the second disc, the atmospheric calmer moments make me appreciate the extremely dynamic and colourful whole. And it must be said the band is excellent. So is the production, each instrument sounds clear. The flute sometimes adds a Jethro Tull vibe which is a delight.

Can't deny, this is a highly ambitious and original prog work, an acquired taste at least for the vocals, no doubt, but done with such passion and skill that it deserves four stars.