MORE ONCE MORE

Following the transient disbanding of ECHOLYN,their keyboardist Chris Buzby formed FINNEUS GAUGE in 1996,named after Phineas Gage,a railway construction foreman of 19th century,who survived after a big piece of iron passed through his head during an accident.On FINNEUS GAUGE we also meet Chris' younger brother John on drums (later to form ''Land of chocolate'') and talented fusion guitarist Scott McGill.In 1997 the band recorded and released their debut ''More once more''.

Elements,sights and sounds met in ECHOLYN's works are also present here,but ''More once more'' is way more complicated than anything created by ECHOLYN,while the music approaches more the fusion/jazz side of prog than the symphonic one.Without being excessive,this is one of the most complex and craziest albums around!The tracks follow a fast and furious tempo,characterized by the superb guitar work of McGill, recalling ALLAN HOLDSWORTH at his best,and the obscure and challenging keyboard parts of Chris Buzby.Some mellow atmospheric intros with Laura Martin's voice on the front are somewhat needed to lighten things,but soon what is to be heard is complicated interplays between the rhythm section and the guitars or keys,accompanied by endless multi-vocal harmonies in the vein of GENTLE GIANT.All performances, especially McGill's,are excellent but be warned that ''More once more'' won't be everybody's cup of tea,despite its undoubtful high level of musicianship.This is the definition of an album,that needs a good number of spins to be appreciated.Personally,I found it very attractive, demanding and professional and an easy choice for a day,when I need something trully intricate to listen to...