ARTS

I notice on PA it is indicated as being neo-prog, but that must have been a close-run thing as to me this is much closer to crossover prog that neo. For the most part this is a very relaxed album, with a commercial Eighties feel with some elements of the late Seventies as opposed to the more biting and edgy neo which tends to have more guitars. It is laid back and middle of the road which makes for a very pleasant release even though I do wish it had more rock within it. When one pays attention, it is easy to see just how much complexity there is within, and a special mention must be made of some wonderful basslines, yet for much of this it feels rather bland. Rather frustratingly, the last track of the six shows a very different side indeed, and one which really caught my attention. This is an instrumental track which combines folk with much more guitar, and sounds almost like a different band altogether, so much so that I do wonder if this was completed when the band got back together as opposed to being part of the earlier sessions. Jessica is much more to the front in this number, which is intriguing and contains real depth, with Jonas also having the opportunity to be more dynamic while the drums and bass are very solid indeed.

It is going to be interesting to hear what they come up with next, as this is an interesting album which will certainly gain a lot of plays from those who do not want their prog to be too heavy.