SEVEN TEARS

This LP firmly established the band within the current heavy progressive/hard rock trends at the threshold of the 1970s. Influences from LED ZEPPELIN, PINK FLOYD or URIAH HEEP are obvious but the question is were they used for good or bad results?

The magnum opus of the album, She Flies on Strange Wings is masterpiece of mini prog-epic setting the blueprint for similar compositions to come (eg. Are You Receiving Me). Heavy, saxophone-driven riff of Hope reminds of VDGG's Jaxons' pyrothechnics, while This Is the Other Side of Life is yet another excellent heavy psych song containing an irresistable odd time signature played by piano and strong bass, while flute and what sounds like electric sitar provide an acid-like post Hippie atmosphere. Finally, the closing You Are Better Off Free bring the album to an end with fiery, blues-based heavy acid rock with organ backing of the forefront guitar soli. Easy Floydian opener Silver Ships is nice introduction presenting Barry Hay on flute.

Unfortunately, what prevents me from giving another star to this interesting album is a weak and somtimes really flawed vocals, along with naive lyrics. I am not sure who was to be blamed for it - Kooymans or Hay - but I don't like them. Another drawbacks are a downright stupid hard rocker The Road Swallowed Her Name and Don't Worry which although having very good piano chords and excellent driving bass is downplayed by poor vocals. Nonetheless, I would still recommend this album to all heavy prog/hard rock fans, while She Flies is a must listen.

PERSONAL RATING: 3,5/5

P.A. RATING: 3/5