MROWISKO

Yet again I marvel at the progressive scene in the Eastern block, behind the wall et al. I bought this album on a whim, not really knowing what it was. Since I then had discovered Niemen I thought, why not try this album out? The cover was so striking I couldn't help myself. Have I regretted this? No, not in the least.

The album starts off really nice, with birds singing, before a gentle guitar comes in, paving the way for pleasant organ. I find that to be so charming and a wonderful way to start off this progressive journey. The next track, Kuszenie, is filled with heavy rhythm, storming organ and screaming guitar. And it continues in that way, blending softness with harshness. Melody with complexity and sometimes even free-form, though not overbearingly so. Just enough free-form to add some spice to this wonderful stew.

The tracks segues into each other, making this a sort of symphonic experience. The tracks are short but since they cling together that is hardly a problem, if you think that proggers absolutely must represent themselves thorugh lengthy epics.

All in all, Mrowisko is a little gem of organ-driven prog with an East European flavor. It is a pleasure to listen to and an album that needs to be discovered by more people.