SVITANIE

Svitanie was the only B.E. recorded in Slovakia and not Czech Republic (although technically still Czechoslovakia) and that determined the lyrics and song names that had to be in Slovakian, a strange rule by the recording company.

Fedor Freso from previously Collegium Musicum appeared in the band for a year or so, resulting in this unique album which features his academic and complex bass playing which has and never be at that level in this band. Keyboard sounds have been updated to include modern sounds such ARP, electric piano while still employing organs. Guitar playing is muscular and forms a tight duo with drums. Placed between fusion and progressive rock, it is also the last album with any jazz influences.

The first composition, "Vysoká Stolička, Dlhý Popol" lets the listeners know that Focus and Finch traces from the previous album are more distant, and now it's YES and Collegium Musicum that come to mind. Organ play has never reminded C.M. until this album - the sequence of chords, the sound and majesty of organ does it. The track is an instrumental workout full of alterations, excitement and highlights on all instruments with great compositional qualities.

"Ej, Padá, Padá Rosenka" is a Moravian folk-based song and became a constant trademark hit of the band, High vocal of Freso is so different from Semelka/Novotny tandem. It is the most accessible track here.

"V Sobotu Popoludní " is firmly rooted in the YES territory. The drummer is excelling here with various odd time signatures but the keyboard and guitar are creative, too.

"Svitanie" is a long, perhaps overly long, final track with a lot of symphonic traces. It contains even a bluesy section.

An awesome album in the league with contemporary Fermata albums.