WAVES OVER VIENNA

Austrian trio PHI is a self-described post-progressive rock band that was formed ten years ago, and while its first incarnation broke up, a second version arose a few years after and has been steadily developing their craft ever since the release of their debut album "Ghost" in 2011. At this point they have three studio albums and one official EP out, in addition to this live CD+DVD package that was released by Gentle Art of Music in 2015.

As such this album serves as a good introduction to the band, as it does contain material from all of their studio productions, presented and performed in a (mostly) compelling and likable manner. The live DVD is perhaps more of interest to existing fans, but a worthwhile watch even if not shining in moments of brilliance also for others. I'd estimate that fans of bands such as Porcupine Tree and Riverside might be the key audience for this band, and personally, my impression is that Phi is a band with a high enough quality to merit being mentioned in such a context too.