CIVILISATION

A really comfortable album offered by this Aussie prog rockers. SOUTHERN EMPIRE are headed, or at least founded by experienced musician Sean Timms, who is also known for playing with the band Unitopia, amongst other collaborations. Seemingly their passion is to elaborate extended songs, no matter what. I mean, basically it's not a problem to offer a 30 minute rock music suite. But this without running into boredem and aimlessness at any one time? And so I'm really enjoying the album from the first to the last minute. When listening you will have other known bands at hand for a reference quickly, some glimpses, influences can't be denied, no question.

New young bands probably will prefer being compared to respected artists, could be helpful for gathering some reputation. Not necessary in this case. Concerning so much richness to detect the list would take half the review maybe. Well, nevertheless, this is a unique case, due to a very special outfit being shaped, while skillfully combining different styles, as there are neo prog, heavy art rock, jazz, folk, AOR, metal aso. And well crafted compositions are vital, on top of it a virtuoso execution is given to make it rounded. Now the last hurdle solely would be to reserve enough time for this gem, okay?

Danny Lopresto is serving very good lead vocals. On one hand somewhat AOR close in the vein of Bob Catley, Danny Bowes or maybe Mike Tramp. But then also more charming when it comes to the neo and art rock parts. Not to forget, furthermore, often demanded musician and producer Steve Unruh and german prog iconic figure Marek Arnold have been invited for some decorative adds via violin, flute and saxophone. The aforementioned long track might be emphasized as the ultimate highlight. Definitely a monster epic including multiple faces, nearly being out of equal. Recommended! 'Civilisation' delivers 70 minutes of intricate and highly melodic stuff - 4.5 stars.