LÁQUESIS

Well, it would be a bit short-sighted to say that LAQUESIS is a new band arriving on the progressive rock scene. This quintet from Rosario/Argentina is existing for some years anyway, continuously refining and maturing their song material. In 2013 they finally felt it was about time to close this process up and to officially release their elaborations. This eponymous debut outing offers a fine blend of heavy and symphonic ingredients, with the emphasis on tricky compositions. Vocals - though Martin Puntonet is equppied with a proper singing voice - are not very present, which surprises in some way.

Efecto Placebo turns out to be a really strong opener, keyboarder Diego Actis works some Supertramp reminiscence in here. And in fact the diversified keyboard job is the band's trademark first of all, while perfectly corresponding with Guillermo Caminer's guitar appearance. The following songs, starting with Terra X, are instrumental, melodic, tricky, partially balladesque, partially groovy, comprising all the beloved ingredients which compose an excellent progressive rock production. On Lemuria vocals return again. this time in Spanish and the extended Las Moiras suite is consisting of four parts, showing some classical background.

As for my sentiment LAQUESIS have produced a really elaborated album, their patience was worth while. This is technically flawless,.featuring very melodic songs and vocals alternating in English and Spain. Though appearing a bit heaver overall, especially fans of Karmakanic or The Flower Kings will enjoy this album, I'm quite sure. Definitely a highlight and a big recommendation to prog purists, you shouldn't miss that.