THE GODDESS OF DARKNESS

Ars Nova (JAP)

Symphonic Prog

3.72 | 90 ratings

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ZowieZiggy
Prog Reviewer

There are some pros and cons for this all-girl Japanese band.

On the pro side one has to admit that their ELP-ish music is way better than the one of their model in these mid-late nineties. They are bringing the fans (to which I belong) to the sounds they have forgotten (unless they endlessly listen to "Tarkus") for so many years.

When it is played with such brio, I am keen to forgive this "tribute band" attitude and if you are ready for an ELP encounter, I can only recommend this album to nostalgic persons but not really to the ones who are expecting creativity.

To appreciate this release, you need to be open-minded in terms of derivative work but even if the keyboards sounds are great, the rhythmic section just sound shy in comparison with whom you know. To recreate the pompous side of ELP is not difficult. To add all their subtlety, Keith's classical approach, Gregg's smooth vocal work (at least, one can't reproach "Ars Nova" to imitate this, since they are an all instrumental band) is another challenge.

There are some beautiful and flamboyant passages in this album of which "Isis" probably combines most of the characteristics I have outlined a little earlier (of which the most significant part is the great piano work).

On the cons side, the lack of originality of course, the average song writing and the diversification. At the time you listen to "The Gorgons", you might feel like a bit of reliefto get closer to the end of this album. Because too much is too much.

Even if I was a profound lover of those fantastic keys moments distilled by the master, their equivalent are not on par in terms of inventiveness. A good representation of works already performed, by skilled musicians.

Three stars for these Japanese godesses.

ZowieZiggy | 3/5 | 2007-12-28

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