SHOOTING ALBATROSS

Very impressive work of these veterans from the first wave of neo prog rockers. While their earlier effords were good, but not particulary convincing, this one is. it's a superb mix of symphonic prog rock with scotish folk plus some other celtic influences. The result is quite stoniching. There are some hints of classic Yes, Genesis, Moody Blues, the Beatles, Jethro Tull and even some more metallic sounds here and there. The mix may sound odd, but it works.

The album is composed of only four epics (varying from 12 to 23 minutes). How could they go wrong with that? They had to be inspired and inspired they were. Even original singer Alan Reed (who left them in the mid 80's to join Pallas) appears on the best track, the excellent So Far. But the instrumental parts are the real treat fo this CD: incredibly varied, creative, well arranged and played, very progressive! Some keyboards parts are stunning, with the use of very organic sounds through analogic instruments (Fender Rhodes piano, Hammond Organ and waves of mellotron).

The acoustic moments are a show apart: they would made jealous many other much more experienced prog folk groups! The band did a fine job of exploring their folk roots in a unique form. The almost perfect balance of those elements are the key to understand this album. It reminds me of Genesis Trespass in some moments, but while is obvious that Abel Ganz pays homage to their idols it is also true they did it with lots of personality.

Ok, Shooting Albatross may not be perfect, but it is surely Abel Ganz best and also one of the best CDs I heard lately. I hope the group follow this same path for their next works. They have finally found their own true sound and came up with a brilliant piece of music (helped a lot by a tremendous production job). Highly recommended. 4,5 stars.